Caol Ila — Whisky Auctioneer

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Caol Ila 12 yo

Лот #4639036 · 43.0% · 70 cl

⏱ закрытие 19 September 2026 в 21:40 CEST (21:40 Islay Bunna-K)

ценность

дешевле, чем ~89% виски рейтинга 83.6 (цена €32 — медиана продаж, 3461 оц.)
⚡ по ставке сейчас: 93

Лот на аукционе ↗ · История ↗ · Whiskybase ↗ · сверено: по EAN (найдено поиском)

Сверка матча с Whiskybase сверено: по EAN (найдено поиском)

лот аукциона

Caol Ila 12yo

43.0% · 70cl

↔

Whiskybase · рейтинг 83.6

Caol Ila 12-year-old

Caol Ila

Сравни фото и данные глазами (фото ВБ — по ссылке на карточку). Если это разные бутылки — сними матч.

Сохранённая текущая ставка€28 ok · возраст 38с; для живого наблюдения используйте панель списка

Недавние продажи (вся история) €32 +12% мин €30 · 2 прод. · в сегодняшних €

Розница (исторический ориентир WB)~€43 Whiskybase shop: status_stale — исторический ориентир, не розница — НЕ активная цена: не участвует в скидке/score и не зеленит сравнение — с оценкой ПОЛНОЙ стоимости на бутылку в выбранной корзине (до доп. страховки), а не со ставкой; hammer-скидка к медиане продаж/fair считается отдельно

Рейтинг WB83.6 3461 оценок

Справедливая цена за рейтинг €60 типичная ниже на 47% кривая рынка

Медиана оценок 90.0 у экспертов 89.5 (46) · разброс ±1.7 · 89–100 · 187 оценок

Вкусоароматический профиль

Smokey 49

Citric 39

Fresh Fruit 27

Honey 24

Medicinal 24

Mossy 20

New Wood 18

Oily 16

Vanilla 16

Coal-gas 13

Kippery 13

Malt Extract 12

Chocolate 9

Leathery 5

Tobacco 5

Sherried 3

Solvent 3

Cooked Fruit 2

Dried Fruit 2

Fragant 2

Green-House 2

Hay-like 2

Nutty 2

Old Wood 2

Sandy 2

Yeasty 2

Leafy 1

Vegetative 1

История продаж этой бутылки

Аукцион	Результат
2025-02	€34
2024-04	€31

Цены в магазинах (Whiskybase)

Магазин	Цена	≈€
Old Whisky shop	43.31 EUR	€43
Whiskyfass shop	43.88 EUR	€44
Muc Spirits shop	43.90 EUR	€44
Delias Whiskyshop GmbH shop	44.90 EUR	€45
Whiskybase Shop shop	47.50 EUR	€48

Отзывы Whiskybase

учтено 342 заметок · текстовых 204 · полный lossless-снимок WB (полнота подтверждена)

Суммаризация отзывов

В большинстве процитированных фрагментов Caol Ila 12 описывают как дымный и торфяной виски с солью/морскими нотами, лимоном/цитрусом, ванилью, солодом и мёдом, иногда с йодом/медицинскими, травянистыми, маслянистыми, кожными, табачными, яблочными и шоколадными или хересно-фруктовыми оттенками [r1][r2][r3][r13][r14][r18][r22][r24][r33][r40][r42][r44][r45][r46][r52][r53][r54][r55][r56][r57][r59][r60][r75][r78][r90][r107][r108][r109][r111][r115][r132][r138][r141][r142][r147][r156][r159][r161][r173][r179][r180][r186][r189][r191][r193][r194][r196][r204]. Его нередко называют мягким, сбалансированным, «ежедневным» молтом, хорошим соотношением цена/качество и удачным входом для новичков в торфяные виски [r13][r32][r35][r36][r40][r42][r43][r44][r45][r46][r51][r52][r58][r65][r70][r81][r82][r88][r94][r105][r143][r148][r161][r173][r175][r179][r180][r186][r189][r191][r193][r194][r196][r204]; отдельные отзывы называют его очень сильным по характеру [r14], «Quintessential Islay» [r13], «серьёзно сложным» и «ошеломляюще хорошим для entry-level» [r202][r183], а [r13] относит его к недооценённым. Однако в тех же текстах отчётливо звучат отрицательные и противоречивые мнения, которые нельзя опускать: «i dont like it» [r4], развёрнутая критика скучности и отсутствия характера с советом брать независимые розливы [r12], «абсолютно отвратительный» вкус с советом пробовать перед покупкой [r49], «не очень понравился» и плохое сочетание с торфом [r63], жалоба на вкус спустя часы после драмма [r47], «не нравится, худший виски» [r117], «скучный, тонкий» [r118], «потерял глубину» [r119], «слишком минималистичный, без личности» [r124], «очень одномерный» [r65][r89][r149], «не очень выразительный» [r86], «довольно грубый и индустриальный» [r201]. Повторяются жалобы на низкую крепость/«thin»/водянистость и недостаток интенсивности или сложности [r21][r24][r34][r112][r118][r126][r131][r134][r152][r165][r181][r187][r191][r197][r200], включая претензии к 43% ABV и отсутствию non-chillfiltered/натурального цвета [r45][r181][r187][r191][r197][r200]. Есть и неоднозначные замечания: слабая горечь в финише [r42], финиш немного слабее из-за 43% ABV [r45], начало с интенсивными прибрежными нотами, но затем «резко останавливается» [r48], непохожесть на типичный островной торф [r78], «на любителя» с предпочтением Talisker 10 [r99] или Laphroaig QC при схожей цене [r100], сравнение с Kilchoman/Ardbeg не в пользу Caol Ila [r112][r131]. Отдельно отмечается разница розливов: предпочтение старого 2002 года нынешним [r55], а также сравнение старого релиза 2002 с новым 2018, где старый назван более комплексным и сбалансированным, а новый — более «древесным» и теряющим баланс в финише [r178].

собрано 204/342 текстовых отзывов · полный lossless-снимок WB · 2026-09-12T20:47:18Z · источник evidence

Spoerkel Connoisseur 85 06 feb 2023 10:22 am

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

Klexx Connoisseur 81 09 mar 2024 7:48 am

нос 83 · вкус 79 · финиш 80

Manumans Member Senior 82 17 feb 2025 8:15 pm

Fruity peat bomb. Very pleasant malt

нос 83 · вкус 83 · финиш 80

ThorstenH Connoisseur 77 04 apr 2025 7:16 pm

Tried another CI12 in a bar in Edinburgh. It was pleasant to drink, with a delicious finish and a hint of chocolate. 71-80 – Fine, like to drink by time

нос 75 · вкус 75 · финиш 82

junyvyao Connoisseur 82 28 jun 2025 12:21 pm

нос 82 · вкус 82 · финиш 81

KacperSo93 Expert Senior 82 11 jul 2025 6:33 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	81	Wet grass after mowing, slightly smoky and peaty, grilled citrus fruits, a bit of sea breeze
Вкус	83	Peat larger than in the aroma, grilled citrus, bitterness, ginger, black pepper, slightly mineral aftertaste, slightly sweet, wet wood, sea salt
Финиш	83	Peaty, wet wood, ash from the fire, a bit of sea salt, vanilla, black pepper, a bit of smoke and iodine

mestafin Newbie 50 10 jul 2026 5:47 pm

i dont like it

marvec Member Junior — 02 aug 2010 10:49 pm

07/17/2010, conditions 2/5

Dipmaster Member Senior — 25 may 2011 3:25 pm

200 ml

Whiskyblend Member Senior 77 26 jan 2012 11:11 am

нос 79 · вкус 76 · финиш 77

granella2003 Connoisseur 91 14 oct 2012 12:26 pm

нос 92 · вкус 90 · финиш 92

Hvdree Connoisseur 84 13 jun 2014 10:43 pm

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

WhiskyLovingPianist Connoisseur 85 11 nov 2014 12:59 pm

N: Oily, phenolic, nutty, salty, wet granite... T: Bold arrival, clean spirit and oak strong with peat oils and salty malt gently opening out. F: Salty, bitter wood, sweet, oily conclusion C: From a new bottle [Nov ’14] this is a cracking batch of Caol Ila 12, the best ive come across in the last ten years. Scores a B+

Zumbar Expert Senior 86 01 feb 2015 5:19 pm

нос 87 · вкус 85 · финиш 86

Goethe Connoisseur 84 04 feb 2015 10:07 pm

My favorite Islay salmon.

Allandale Connoisseur 84 18 jul 2015 7:11 pm

TurboMcKwek Connoisseur 84 26 jul 2015 6:57 pm

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 82

Kostya Connoisseur 84 30 aug 2015 6:49 pm

(A sample) young peated malt, quite fresh and clean

tkoppelaar Expert Junior 83 17 jan 2016 8:14 pm

Must have for peated enthusiasts. Especially for this price!

Eilean a' Cheo Expert Senior 86 01 apr 2016 11:37 pm

it is getting better and better in my opinion and it is getingt peatier and fatter as well....well done!!

Whisky Hamster Expert Senior 79 18 may 2016 12:03 am

What a lackluster and utterly boring smoky single malt! Gave it another chance after a few years and the - consistent (usually a virtue, not in this case, though) - mediocrity prevailed again. Don't get me wrong, it's still decently made malt without major flaws, off-notes, etc. save one: personality. Where Lagavulin, even in its recent 8 yo bottling with scarce wood influence shows exiting notes, Ardbeg Ten remains a proven Islay entry and a Laphi 10/Quarter Cask exude medicinal uniqueness, Caol Ila 12 tastes like some sort of bare-bone peated Islay malt, before it's given its personality. Maybe that's just that, the competition is too stiff? Not too long ago, Caol Ila knew and acknowleded they were pretty much the weakest Islay distillery regarding their standard range. Their pricing reflected that. Now, with the (presumed) hype of Scotch whisky in my humble opinion they try to play with the big boys. Too bad they are not there, neither with the 12, nor the 18 or the cask strength. With pricing as it is today, I strongly advise anybody to get an independent bottling of Caol Ila. There are many good ones out there, almost all of them better than what the distillery puts out.

Dram The Man Expert Junior 83 04 jun 2016 5:40 pm

нос 86 · вкус 84 · финиш 80

vb_bembel Expert Senior 85 11 oct 2016 11:47 am

нос 83 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

LordIslay Expert Senior 90 15 oct 2016 8:09 pm

нос 92 · вкус 91 · финиш 90

Whisky Jig Expert Junior 86 08 jun 2017 4:02 am

A highly underrated whisky and a favourite "daily dram". Gentle, salty smoke and a honeyed malty sweetness with a clean grassy finish. Quintessential Islay.

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 83

Ra_Di Expert Senior 86 12 nov 2017 6:38 pm

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

oppi Expert Senior 72 21 feb 2018 12:28 pm

coldsun Expert Senior 87 11 apr 2020 11:53 am

Peaty smoke, vanilla, citruses, citric zest, sweet roasted malt, tropical fruits, fragnant. Light: gum. Very strong character. Empty glass keeps notes of dried fruits and smoked meat for 4 days (and counting)! The only disdvantage is that the whisky could be more variable. But it is great anyway.

bredstrup Member Senior 80 29 apr 2020 8:11 pm

Nose: Palate: Christmas cake. Spices and oaky bitterness. Not overly complex Finish: oak and more spices. A hint of citrus. Medium long

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Smoke, sulfur, citric notes. Wet, burnt wood, old seaweed
Вкус	75	Christmas cake. Spices and oaky bitterness. Not overly complex
Финиш	80	Oak and more spices. A hint of citrus. Medium long

DanishDistilled Expert Senior 80 23 may 2020 4:43 pm

The best description I can find for this whisky is "surprisingly generic".

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	80	Was not impressed at first. After a while a smell of tar and old wooden ships comes up.
Вкус	83	Pleasant, medium peated taste. Nothing impressive. A nice sweetness, burnt wood, maritime saltiness.
Финиш	77	Dry, wooden taste.

JNuyts Connoisseur 84 09 jun 2020 9:53 pm

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 83

Gweddry Expert Senior 87 23 jan 2021 11:52 am

hafssol Expert Junior 80 28 feb 2021 7:21 pm

Always nice to find back in every bottle its golden clear colour and smoky taste. Not particularly complex for an Islay malt, but I appreciate its lemon and grass notes, refreshingly warm for a peaty malt.

Der_Schnappulierer Expert Senior 83 13 mar 2021 6:25 pm

Some would say boring about Caol Ila 12, I think it's delicious and just calmly honest. A distillery that for me stands for solid craftsmanship and high quality, despite the large quantities that are bottled. Clear recommendation for the small budget!

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Sweet, with vanilla, apples and citrus fruits, moderate smoke and salt. Very clear and open.
Вкус	82	Oily and soft, smoke, although I find the salty taste to be even more pronounced. Some ash in the background, nice sweetness and citrus aromas.
Финиш	84	Oily, ash, some oak and ham. Excellent!

AX1654XA Expert Senior 82 28 nov 2021 10:05 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Watery, marshy, hydrogen sulfide, fermented milk products, cheese,
Вкус	82	Caustic, liquid, creamy
Финиш	82	Smoke, extinguished fire, rustic

Shpinyuan Member Junior 85 04 may 2023 5:56 pm

Caol Ila 12 is a light and fresh single malt that showcases the distillery’s signature style of peat smoke and maritime character. The finish is long and lingering.This whisky is easy to drink

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 87

Vas Connoisseur 85 13 jun 2023 6:45 am

нос 86 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

FoivosSoueref Expert Senior 83 20 jun 2023 9:29 pm

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 81

Pachasius Member Senior 81 27 oct 2023 8:07 am

OrthoTDStice Newbie 80 15 mar 2024 3:08 am

My favorite Islay distillery. Their core 12 year is a very nice whisky but unfortunately, just about every independent bottling is better. Low proof point and chill filtering definitely takes a bite out of it. In my area, at least, Caol Ila is not a big mass market label. I can barely find this in stores. If it's that way elsewhere as well, I would think that Diagio could do better with this if they targeted the whisky nerds. But maybe they make so much money selling to Johnny Walker that they don't care.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	82	Smokey and dark.
Вкус	79	Umami, dark fruit, honey.
Финиш	79	Medium.

KyleRamsay Expert Junior 82 15 mar 2024 10:56 pm

нос 83 · вкус 82 · финиш 82

RichardPsmith Expert Senior 84 21 aug 2024 1:06 pm

Open, with a neat ashy smoke, minerals and sea salt, fruit components (lemons and apples), pronounced peppery spices, as well as leather and tobacco. The taste is pungent, almost completely repeats the nose, but adds a little spicy spices. The finish is short. The sample is not complex, but quite vibrant, and could be a great entry point for those just starting to try smoky whiskys.

redfoxiczek Expert Senior 85 20 nov 2024 3:14 pm

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 85

Dramrunner Expert Senior 94 27 dec 2024 3:23 pm

Light in color but really good whisky, smoke but still quite nice

PeatedContainer Member Senior 85 14 nov 2025 11:00 pm

It's fresh, retains a clear seaside influence throughout, and has the captivating quality of getting just a little bit better at each stage, from nose to finish. Excellent whisky let down by its low ABV.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	79	Moderate, present but not overpowering. Sea spray, brine and at first, a smouldering campfire, and a note of butter/toffee/diacetyl somewhere. Definitely diacetyl- getting notes of buttered popcorn. Some vegetal notes- seaweed, cabbage. Minor, distant tar. Sweet oranges, and mulling spices as it blooms.
Вкус	86	Somewhat thin with a pleasant warmth- this ABV does not suit this liquor. Peppery at the sides, with coastal salinity and gentle incense smoke at the forefront. Caramel and toffee, hints of vanilla near the end with a constant seaside brine. Smoke is present throughout, but never overpowers, just compliments.
Финиш	89	Medium length, rounded and pleasant. Ripe - slightly overripe - fruit, a bit of oak. Traces of apples and cinnamon- I've seen this strongly in IBs, now noticing it in the original.

Louisvandermeer Expert Senior 84 25 may 2026 9:21 pm

A delicious classic from Islay. Simply tasty and something to always look back on.

hsmithjr Connoisseur 81 01 oct 2011 8:52 pm

нос 82 · вкус 80 · финиш 80

Edwin de Lange Expert Senior 88 02 jun 2012 11:12 am

Nice and peaty, phenolic, not sweet, more salty, very full but seems to lack something in the balance. I love peat and definitely love this one, due to its recognisable differences from Laphroaigh and Ardbeg.

нос 89 · вкус 85 · финиш 90

granella2003 Connoisseur 91 14 oct 2012 12:23 pm

WOW

GibbonGorilla Member Senior 83 18 jan 2014 8:59 pm

нос 83 · вкус 81 · финиш 83

T.Norad Member Senior — 06 feb 2014 8:33 pm

When the smoke is slightly oxidized, it gets better. After the smoke comes an eerie sweetness. Unfortunately, there is not much flavor left over, but you can still buy this malt again. Price wise he is accordingly interesting

Taita Expert Junior 83 02 apr 2014 5:42 pm

Harmonious,hard to distinguish individual components

jhut Expert Junior 88 01 jan 2016 7:01 pm

Cafe de Toeter in Groningen, 07-09-2015

Laugenbretzel Expert Senior 83 27 jun 2016 8:41 am

нос 85 · вкус 83 · финиш 84

pianoman Connoisseur 85 02 jul 2016 3:26 pm

Andytka3 Connoisseur 84 22 dec 2016 5:56 am

Nose:- Unpretentious, a rush of abundant mineral notes of brine, cold stone and salty peat of seaweed on first nosing, underlay with some curious fruit sweetness. Splash of water to waken the diesel and tar notes. Intriguing and complex. Palate:- Syrupy sweet approach, follow by lightly sour burnt caramel and traces of iodine. Masked smokiness, not too noticeable, but it is there lingering in the mouth. Finish:- Furry, throat heating and the thick herby smoke reveals themselves, mouth coating and warming. Thin-medium body, medium length. Slightly deceiving and uniquely structured, don't hold back after the first sip, it took me 2 drams to truly enjoy this goodness. — at The Whisky Bar, Kuala Lumpur.

нос 88 · вкус 87 · финиш 86

Laga93 Expert Senior 85 07 jan 2017 5:54 am

нос 87 · вкус 84 · финиш 85

maltaholic Connoisseur 85 09 jul 2017 2:13 pm

нос 88 · вкус 85 · финиш 86

fgg Expert Senior 82 30 jul 2017 2:38 am

нос 86 · вкус 82 · финиш 81

LiquidThoughts Connoisseur 85 29 sep 2017 8:18 pm

For me, one of the most underrated single malts out there, a very nice standard islay for people who are not just blind ash-horny. ;)

Stanzeflasche Connoisseur 87 25 mar 2018 12:58 am

A light, lemony peat combines advantageously with woody reflections and red fruits. Cherry, vanilla. It's fresh. We smell iodine, the tide, a little coarse salt. On the beach, one day at low tide. The foam, the kelp, and a few small crustaceans that escape. The entry in the mouth is sparkling, spicy, fruity, always in balance, varnish, barley, and a very small touch of caramel. The almost acrid peat emerges on the finish, with a power delicately contained by the oak and barley. It's long in the mouth, with a hint of honey and earth, a little oily grass. It's oily and salty. Really a good whisky, all in control and power, varied, between fruits and peat, and in small touches. An excellent marriage between iodine, peat and red fruits. https://ilikesky2020.blogspot.com/2020/05/caol-ila-12-yo-43-original-bottling.html

нос 89 · вкус 85 · финиш 87

Dris Connoisseur 86 18 mar 2019 1:32 am

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 87

Moses Connoisseur 83 06 aug 2019 12:46 pm

Can I keep this brief because we're not really connecting? Everything is as it should be, and nothing is special. My impression is exactly as I described in those two sentences: respectful, but a little bored.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	I'm not a fan of these typical lemon-shaped bottles. I probably never will be. But I do respect it. It's very solidly made and the price-performance ratio is okay.
Вкус	83	It's smoky, spicy, and even slightly sweet. A little salty, and all in all, perfectly fine.
Финиш	81	Medium length but quick-drying. The smoke and sea air linger. An island experience, yes... but only 1.0 ;)

dominikbraun Connoisseur 83 13 apr 2020 10:06 pm

Scherenschnitte Expert Senior 86 31 dec 2020 5:46 pm

2018 bottling. Really good and underrated these days. It's a shame they don't bump the ABV higher for this release.⁣

Teomarg Connoisseur 85 11 jan 2021 5:48 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

NXI Member Senior 88 26 jan 2021 8:39 pm

When in its best shape, this is a great Islay malt that has exceptional balance, beautiful aroma, superb taste, enough complexity and no serious weaknesses. I love its finish, in which delicate smoke gradually rises from your throat and fills your sinuses, causing an effect similar to that when using snuff. Dividing the sip into two consecutive smaller ones makes the experience even stronger.

riegerjonas Expert Senior 84 11 apr 2021 6:30 pm

2021-04-10

claymore84 Expert Senior 82 25 sep 2021 12:28 am

Tasted on 09-24-2021 in Bergisch Gladbach.

AX1654XA Expert Senior 82 28 nov 2021 10:05 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Watery, marshy, hydrogen sulfide, fermented milk products, cheese,
Вкус	82	Caustic, liquid, creamy
Финиш	82	Smoke, extinguished fire, rustic

MichSan Expert Junior 83 17 jan 2024 10:14 pm

нос 85 · вкус 83 · финиш 82

RichardPsmith Expert Senior 84 01 mar 2024 4:56 pm

Color – straw. The aroma is peat, smoke, oil and cream. Taste – peat, barley, iodine, boiled leather. A drink for every day, as smooth as the horizon.

Jotunn13 Member Junior 88 07 may 2024 8:08 pm

Peaty, sweet and fresh

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Quite strong but simple
Вкус	90
Финиш	90

DrPepper_Addict Connoisseur 85 23 jun 2024 6:52 am

redfoxiczek Expert Senior 85 24 oct 2024 2:11 pm

plutoes Expert Senior 82 30 dec 2024 5:24 am

Caol Ila 12-Year is a well-crafted Islay malt with a strong peat presence that doesn’t overpower its fruity and malty nuances. The interplay of smoke, citrus, and menthol is intriguing, making it dynamic yet approachable. The low ABV ensures a smooth experience, though the faint bitterness on the finish detracts slightly from the overall enjoyment. The whisky is balanced and lively, with just enough complexity to keep the drinker engaged. Despite minor drawbacks, it delivers a solid Islay experience that pairs smoky depth with subtle brightness.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	82	Top Notes: Smoky (firewood), stale tobacco Base Notes: Plain yogurt, lemon, refined salt, malted barley Hints: Ginger, menthol
Вкус	82	Top Notes: Malted barley, smoky (firewood, ash) Base Notes: Dried tobacco leaves, roasted pineapple, dry wood, powdered medicine Hints: Garlic, burnt coffee beans, menthol, green apple
Финиш	83	Palate -Top Notes: Charred grains, smoky (firewood, ash) -Base Notes: Powdered medicine, dried tobacco leaves, sweet grain notes Nose -Top Notes: Smoky (firewood, ash), malted barley, dried tobacco leaves -Base Notes: Lemon, menthol, garlic

DamianW88 Member Senior 83 25 feb 2025 2:07 pm

нос 83 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

LaphroaigRules Expert Senior 85 30 mar 2025 2:21 pm

нос 80 · вкус 88 · финиш 88

Peatyjohn Expert Senior 85 08 apr 2025 4:42 pm

A well produced Islay peated malt.Peaty , apple, pears, citrus fruit, salty notes. Good entry to Islay peated malts without breaking the bank.

whiskyloverturk Expert Junior 83 08 jun 2025 8:28 am

нос 82 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

Louisvandermeer Expert Senior 84 17 oct 2025 12:05 pm

Simple and delicious, nothing to complain about!

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Inviting and not overly peated. Smoked and salted meat, sea air, and sweetness. Citrus and licorice are also present. All of this combines with a wonderfully soft, peated undertone.
Вкус	85	Soft peat, citrus, and salted fudge are prominent, along with roasted sugars, licorice, and a hint of oak.
Финиш	83	Medium length, somewhat dry, and primarily peat-driven. There's also a fair amount of sweetness, but mostly in the background.

kbs26 Connoisseur 86 25 nov 2025 11:04 pm

нос 85 · вкус 87 · финиш 85

cekiconur Expert Junior 84 13 jan 2026 1:51 am

Overall, I really enjoyed this whisky. It presents very clear and distinct notes of salt, lemon, and minerals. On the nose, there's a rich variety of aromas – sweet, salty, smoky, you name it. It just needs a little aeration. It's extremely smooth. Only the finish is a little weaker, probably due to the 43 abv alcohol, but that's not important at all. It's a whisky you can enjoy every day.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	86	The nose reveals a light peat-like aroma, a hint of burnt and cooling wood, damp cloth, wet wood, slight dampness, slightly damp stone, and a hint of beach sand. Intense notes of salt, minerals, iodine, and a touch of lemon emerge. As the whisky sits in the glass, a sweet, malty (cake-like) and vanilla scent, like pastry cream, linger. After a longer wait, a fleeting hint of chocolate and a few red fruits (raspberry, blackberry) can briefly appear. Sweetness and saltiness, minerals, and marine notes dance harmoniously.
Вкус	84	On the palate, it is oily, full-bodied, smooth, slightly drying, and very soft, very balanced. Notes include minerals, salt, lemon zest, smoky aroma of burnt and cooled wood, white pepper, citrus peels, subtle vanilla and malt sweetness emerging in the background, and a very light caramel.
Финиш	82	It starts with very light vanilla and citrus sweetness, followed by a slight warmth of white pepper, and then a finish that continues with aromas of lemon zest, lemon, salt, minerals, and burnt-cooled wood. It ends with a medium-length finish, leaving a distinct salty and mineral taste on the palate.

DirkRahden Expert Senior 86 16 aug 2026 9:33 am

A recommendation for peat lovers. Not a showstopper, but a pleasant, interesting whisky that has everything a whisky needs: smoke, salt, sweetness, and spice.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	Aromatic, medicinal smoke, sea salt and fruity citrus notes, ripe dried fruits and a pleasant spiciness.
Вкус	88	The campfire smoke is accompanied by sweet, ripe fruit and salty notes; a slight spiciness and heat are perceptible. Overall, everything blends together well.
Финиш	86	The finish is quite long and pleasant, with vanilla, citrus fruits, and a hint of sea air that lingers on the palate until the very end. I am very satisfied with this whisky.

hsmithjr Connoisseur 81 11 jul 2011 10:55 pm

I like this, but my biggest problem is that I taste it hours after I have finished the dram. Once, it woke me up in the middle of the night. Caol Ila!!! The 18 is more subdued, and one of my stock whiskies.

Feusi Connoisseur 82 12 jul 2011 3:21 pm

Medical peat in the nose and an oily sweetness in the mouth. The first mouth feel surprised with its strength and power. That bottle starts with very intesive coastal notes, but stops suddenly.

AristoMoggie Member Senior 50 27 may 2012 2:40 am

Not knowing much about this whisky I was prepared to take a gamble. Bought the bottle, had 2 drams, and the rest went to the kitchen where it even did not last very long in cooking. I thought it had an absolute foul taste. I`m not a peat fan so that does not help of course, but this, it blew my head off in a negative way. I hope I just had a particular bad bottle or so, but, I don`t think so. Try before you buy.

Dionysus Connoisseur 84 20 jan 2014 7:13 pm

A classic islay, low price for an excellent whisky. Together with Laphroaig an Bruichladdich my favorite distillery on the island.

Paulski88 Expert Senior 89 04 aug 2014 11:19 pm

нос 85 · вкус 90 · финиш 75

taldish Member Senior 90 20 oct 2014 10:38 am

нос 93 · вкус 91 · финиш 90

st7 Connoisseur 86 12 jan 2015 5:33 pm

нос 87 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

maltaholic Connoisseur 85 14 jan 2016 11:50 am

one of the best smokers for beginners.

martinni Expert Senior 86 20 mar 2016 5:12 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

Peaty_Nino Member Senior 85 30 mar 2016 9:44 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 86

mer1973 Connoisseur 86 07 dec 2016 8:01 pm

нос 85 · вкус 82 · финиш 82

HammerHead Connoisseur 85 15 jul 2017 4:56 pm

нос 86 · вкус 86 · финиш 83

Crann feàrna Expert Senior 84 10 nov 2017 9:12 pm

нос 84 · вкус 87 · финиш 82

dinclas Member Senior 85 22 nov 2019 8:00 am

A gentle and mild one, perfectly balanced, always enjoyed the warm taste after dinner.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	Iodine and smoke, some grassy and orange, very fresh
Вкус	85	Medium strength, warm, peat, oily, and citrus hidden behind. Everything mixed in harmony, with relatively clear texture
Финиш	87	Medium-long, seeweeds, sweetness still exists, ash after smoke

Slàinte Mhath Super Administrator 87 16 jan 2021 3:55 pm

Many moons ago, it was a dram of Caol Ila 12 that ignited my passion for whisky, and what a journey it has been. Time to revisit my old friend! On the nose, puffs of twiggy bonfire smoke give way to green apples, lemon and briny hints of seawater. Heather honey, black olives and peppery oak spices drive the full-bodied and oily taste, always accompanied by well-integrated sooty salinity. Citrus fruits, subtle vanilla and complex tea notes linger in the long and peaty finish. I'm biased, I know, but this characterful Islay malt is still overlooked and underrated! RATING: 4.0/5.0 stars ≙ 87 pts → FIRST-CLASS

нос 87 · вкус 88 · финиш 86

WhiskyPEATer Expert Senior 86 18 jan 2021 2:30 am

нос 86 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

MLE Connoisseur 84 23 may 2021 12:56 am

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 82

Bomshanka Expert Senior 88 29 aug 2021 12:35 am

Review from a bottle open for 2 years, but with sufficient content to avoid losing the quality of the liquid. Considering this is a 12 year old Islay standard, its often vastly under appreciated and under priced too. Probably the best value for money younger age stated Islay. (I paid 33€ for 1 liter in 2018.)

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	89	Cold ashes of a bonfire. Stewed, sugared lemons cuts cleanly through. One of the cleanest lemon noses in town. Freshly cut peat, honey on toasted bread. Hint of anise and maybe even jalapeño pepper.
Вкус	88	Sweet stewed lemons again, this time they have been through the bonfire. Smoke is clean and spicy. Malty, grainy, honey notes mingle. Clearly not old whisky, but very wholesome for its age.
Финиш	87	Drying out on peppery smoke and lemon zest.

PanAroma0815 Expert Senior 85 04 feb 2022 12:15 am

нос 86 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

3_243F6 Photo Moderator 88 23 jul 2022 6:13 pm

The first bottling from 2002, once again. Very nice. Maritime, fresh, and fruity. Very good balance. I wish current bottlings were as good as this.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	87	Very kippery with lots of honey, soot, apples, and citric grapefruits. There's a subtle maltiness and mild medicinal notes. Overall the nose is well-balanced.
Вкус	88	Kipper, honey, mild soot, green grapes and apples, barley sugars, a fresh citric fruit taste that develops into grapefruit with some chewing. Some iodine.
Финиш	88	Kipper (of course), honey, fresh ripe limes, a bit more soot here, subtle mint leaves, apples. Very fresh and maritime.

aw-home Connoisseur 81 08 aug 2023 10:03 am

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	80	Phenolic peat room with maritime notes, ash, honey and citrus.
Вкус	81	Peat smoke with maritime notes, ash, honey and citrus.
Финиш	81	Long with peat smoke, maritime notes, citrus and honey.

Rockwell Expert Senior 81 02 nov 2023 12:37 pm

RichardPsmith Expert Senior 84 28 feb 2024 2:54 pm

The aroma is strong smoke, a little medicine, iodine, sweetness (honey, vanilla), a note of freshness (salt, lemon). After the first sip it goes into a classic oak barrel. Over time, a lot of acetone comes out in the aroma. Taste - sharp, strong, barley, malt, mild peppery notes at the end, creamy sweetness. The aftertaste dissipates quickly. Dry, smoky, some salt and oak.

Cupcakke0955 Member Senior 83 13 sep 2024 9:51 am

This is one of the bottles I introduce to a beginner who wants to explore islay malts. It showcases clearly the peat smoke character but it is not that strong that it might scare a novice away or turn them off peated whiskies. What I personally like about caol ila is that the distillery character of juicy red apples that will be apparent if you take some time to nose it. It's a solid islay offering.

Sanma Expert Senior 83 06 nov 2024 12:01 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	Yogurt, fruity, tobacco, lemon, salty
Вкус	83	Lemon, smoky, malty, toffee
Финиш	82	Toffee, malty, smoky, seaweed

Fdu17 Expert Senior 84 15 dec 2024 9:31 pm

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 84

Vit_213 Member Senior 84 10 apr 2025 10:16 pm

AlexScotch Member Senior 84 16 aug 2025 10:26 am

Brutal whisky from the island of Islay

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	The smell of smoke, sea salt, vinyl, dark fruit, and citrus fruits
Вкус	84	Fried fish, dark plum, oiliness, citrus, sea salt
Финиш	83	Finish is longer than average. Finish with fried bacon, tannins, sea salt, and citrus

nijholtm Expert Senior 77 21 feb 2012 3:14 pm

Marcallan 45 y.o. Member Junior 85 01 feb 2014 11:31 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 84

lauwensm Member Senior 85 04 sep 2014 12:00 pm

Price quality a great peated whisky. A must have for every whisky drinker.

нос 87 · вкус 84 · финиш 76

Crann feàrna Expert Senior 84 10 jan 2015 6:49 pm

Such an interesting whisky. Adding water helps, but by gentle with the water. 1 teaspoon per dram at the most. Otherwise it drowns the taste. And as always: give it time.

Ties Expert Junior 85 18 may 2015 7:53 pm

нос 86 · вкус 82 · финиш 86

Vrisky Member Senior 82 01 jul 2015 10:43 pm

нос 80 · вкус 81 · финиш 79

Defeatless Connoisseur 75 01 oct 2015 11:12 pm

Nose: mild peat. Sweetness of oak cask. Red fruit, hint of vanilla and cream. more Iodine and sweetness. Taste: peat, some citrus notes. Sweet oak shavings. Blueberries (huh?). Hint of caramel and toffee-cream. Body: medium. Not much special to tell. Finish: medium. Some smoke and liqourish. A little dusty cellar note. Price: quite reasonable in these times of excessive prices. Presentation: Moderate, not much blablabla so it's ok. Comments: well I now know that it's not much of my liking. Peat and me just don't go along very well.

нос 75 · вкус 75 · финиш 73

alex..w..fan Connoisseur 84 12 dec 2015 11:38 am

Note by Serge Valentin from whiskyfun.com: Caol Ila 12 yo (43%, OB, +/- 2015) Another one that we’re trying to follow almost every year. Colour: pale straw. Nose: a longer ageing seems to have imparted more mineral notes, as well as a ‘wider’ coastalness. Iodine, seaweed, bandages, fresh baguette (dough), then rather citrus, as expected. Lemons, grapefruits, a little wet chalk. Bonfire on the beach. Mouth: hey, this burst and roars, and it’s not afraid of the stronger 5yo at all. In fact I find more smoke, more ashes, and more medicinal notes, and while re-reading my notes for last year’s version, indeed I just cannot understand why some folks would call this a ‘lighter peaty Islay’. Agreed, it’s not extremely fat on your palate, but it’s shock-full of peaty/ashy flavours. Even at 43% vol. Finish: long, with a perfect balance between coastal smoke and zesty fruitiness. The aftertaste is very ashy. Comments: up one point. Bargain. SGP:356 - 85 points.

Mr.Edradour Connoisseur 77 05 mar 2016 11:35 am

A solid but very one-dimensional 12yo heavy peated whisky.

martinni Expert Senior 86 05 mar 2016 8:45 pm

recommend

drkrylov Connoisseur 84 27 apr 2016 7:55 am

robain Specialist 86 13 may 2016 12:33 pm

Bang for a buck whisky, very pricy malt.

нос 84 · вкус 87 · финиш 87

whiskybros Expert Junior 84 02 jul 2016 11:10 am

You can find our review here http://www.whiskybros.com/#!Caol-Ila-12yo/c21kp/5725c3910cf26b6d6847ca38

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 84

vojt466 Expert Senior 84 11 sep 2016 8:31 pm

Like most things from Islay - just good :)

Marko_I Connoisseur — 20 nov 2016 4:29 am

In my eyes, together with Ardbeg 10 and Laphroaig 10, one of the three standard bourbon cask smokers that belongs to every Islay shelf. Well, if there is not much space, at least one, no matter which one. I mean, the Caol Ila 12 plays in the same league, for ~ 40 € OK.

berarith73 Expert Senior 84 10 feb 2017 6:28 pm

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

Gaija Expert Senior 88 26 jun 2018 3:39 pm

Will hopefully remain one of my favourite simple examples of an all-time classic distillate.

нос 88 · вкус 87 · финиш 86

Stef89 Expert Junior 80 07 jul 2018 5:06 pm

нос 79 · вкус 78 · финиш 79

WHISKYBANKCN Expert Senior 88 16 jan 2020 12:33 pm

The main reason why I gave this whisky such a high score is because of its cost performance. And it's the balance of whisky that goes beyond most of the same years whisky

нос 89 · вкус 87 · финиш 88

YD84 Expert Senior 87 09 apr 2020 1:02 am

Igor_Gudimov Expert Senior 88 08 oct 2020 5:17 pm

Goldenwhiskycave Expert Senior 80 08 may 2021 8:42 pm

light golden color, a slight oily movement in the glass, slow tears.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	sweet smoke, but I expected smoke but this one is pleasant and sweet, also slightly fresh and minty, licorice nice
Вкус	77	volatile, strong flavor, powerful, full, rich, liquorice, strong burning sensation
Финиш	79	mouthwashes, oily taste but sweet, powerful and long and warm

ctu Connoisseur 83 12 jun 2021 3:10 pm

нос 83 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

3_243F6 Photo Moderator 88 25 jul 2021 8:42 pm

This rating is for the first bottling from 2002.

нос 86 · вкус 86 · финиш 87

Expraesi Connoisseur 85 02 oct 2021 10:32 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

MaroFF Connoisseur 85 22 nov 2021 7:03 pm

One of the best whiskys in this price range. It has a lot of sweets, smoke and seaweed. In my opinion, it tastes much better in the finish than in the aroma. Alcohol very well hidden, does not dominate and does not cover all the advantages of this whisky.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	fresh, grassy, pharmacy, seaweed, in the background lemon peel, delicate spring onion
Вкус	85	sweet, honey, burnt milk, charcoal, citrus, floral, slightly peaty
Финиш	85	quite long, sweet, smoky, tipped with chili pepper, with a honeycomb

jmrml Member Senior 84 27 apr 2023 1:50 am

нос 84 · вкус 88 · финиш 86

OSBee Expert Senior 86 11 may 2023 5:15 pm

нос 87 · вкус 84 · финиш 86

kornelb Member Senior 82 02 jul 2023 11:33 pm

Smoke, peat, citrus, vanilla, quite delicate.

wbarchive_864627 Expert Senior 84 18 apr 2024 12:20 am

84-

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 84

commonwhiskytaster1 Newbie 86 28 dec 2024 3:34 am

gentle peat, complex layers. and contained fruity zest than other islay malts. balanceable dram. but this dram doesn't look like typical islay peat character.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	86	warm peatsmoke with charcoal, sauna wood, cloudy sourness : like orange juice or fino sherry, green apple, like a candy, earthy, mild medicinal, after a while, creamy vanila appear. after the more than few minuets, one bright flowers bloom. maritime wasn't show.
Вкус	87	sweet, salty, silky-creamy, oily, not watery to unexpectedly. many parts is similar to nose. additionaly on this, sweet fruit(plum or apple), savory almond, butter, cocoa truffle, star-anis, heather.
Финиш	85	charcoal, sauna wood, vanila, green apple, orange juice, grassy, mossy, with middle length peat, finished to texture of kelp.

vladANDk Member Senior 93 29 apr 2025 7:57 pm

Aroma, taste...

Palisker Connoisseur 84 16 nov 2025 7:27 pm

feolai Connoisseur 83 24 feb 2026 4:44 pm

Straw-colored. Fresh and appetizing aromas reveal subtle hints of citrus fruits, accompanied by a touch of smokiness. The palate is firm and smooth, starting with a sweet note that evolves into a fragrant smoky flavor and a sweet, smoky taste, leading to a medium-long finish.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Fresh and appetizing aromas reveal subtle hints of citrus fruits, accompanied by a touch of smokiness.
Вкус	83
Финиш	82

Dede Expert Senior 83 23 aug 2009 11:17 pm

An excellent daily dram, with a good quality/price rapport.

Willie JJ Expert Senior 82 12 sep 2011 1:01 pm

I do prefer CS drams, but this is good stuff. Great bang for your buck.

drkrylov Connoisseur 84 07 jan 2012 8:41 am

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 80

zinaf Expert Senior 85 08 dec 2012 9:49 pm

I prefer the nose without water.

Fable Expert Senior 83 04 aug 2013 11:34 am

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 83

lordvolk Member Senior 81 29 jun 2014 9:05 pm

нос 76 · вкус 85 · финиш 81

Magnus Hillman Expert Senior 85 18 jul 2014 4:16 pm

The sugar notes are there but quite restricted. Herbal, smoky salt water lead the flavor profile. It is quite interesting to compare with an unpeated Caol Ila as well, a lot of the sweeter flavors are there as well but needs water and time in the glass to be noticed. (Rating interval 83-86)

irrerelevant Expert Senior 84 05 feb 2015 1:22 pm

typical islay smoker, relatively restrained, a bit earthy / spicy, slightly floral, more campfire, not phenolic

Pépé Expert Junior 84 24 mar 2015 6:56 pm

This is not a very expressive whisky, but with its iodized-peaty hints, its few fruits, its pretty texture and its relatively low price, becomes an interesting daily dram.

Rom Expert Junior 84 29 mar 2015 10:56 pm

Nose of fire of wood. Well peated and smoked, notes of new leather, slightly saline, long. Good.

Ciro Connoisseur 84 10 apr 2015 4:46 am

нос 85 · вкус 83 · финиш 82

Vrisky Member Senior 82 13 may 2015 9:40 pm

нос 84 · вкус 86 · финиш 86

ApricotOne Expert Senior 85 17 may 2015 12:03 pm

нос 84 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

Robert Parker Expert Senior 84 06 sep 2015 11:50 am

PLV outstanding. Often underestimated. In addition to Talisker 10 unbeatable in the price segment and must not hide from higher-priced Malts.

JacobaEd Connoisseur 83 08 oct 2015 9:07 pm

нос 83 · вкус 83 · финиш 84

Mr.Edradour Connoisseur 77 05 mar 2016 11:33 am

A very one-dimensional whisky.

markjedi1 Connoisseur 83 29 jan 2017 11:59 am

Winter Dram Caol Ila is the big work horse of Islay that produces peated whisky for Diageo's blends, of which Johnnie Walker Black Label is the best known one. But it stands on its own as a single malt without any problems. There is a reason why Coal Ila is my favorite Islay whisky. This 12 Year Old is the entry level malt that can be had for as little as 35 EUR. I try a recent bottling, from February 2016. The nose is soft and sweet on caramel, apple and lime. Loads of dried grass and a touch of fish oil. Then something that reminds me of green olives, but with a medicinal twist. The smoke is rather mild. If you leave it for a length of time, it will turn a touch sour. It is wonderfully oily and very spicy from the start. The first sip offers peat and maritime elements, the second leaves a bit of room for the citrus. A soft peppery note and some wood counterfoot this. It is nicely balanced. The long finish keeps the mouth warm. At the death you get another salty uppercut that floors the sweetness. For that price, this Caol Ila should be in your cabinet. Wonderful winter dram. Thanks for the sample, Pat!

chlinatele Expert Senior 84 12 mar 2017 5:54 pm

Good standard of Caol Ila. Like at a low price

нос 84 · вкус 86 · финиш 81

Thermidor Connoisseur 84 02 dec 2017 5:12 pm

I feel like this old favourite has improved enough to earn an extra point (83 -> 84) over Laphroaig 10yo (83), mostly due to the watery body the latter has at 40%.

stefsel111 Connoisseur 84 05 jan 2018 9:59 pm

нос 82 · вкус 86 · финиш 84

Goldenwhiskycave Expert Senior 80 07 jan 2018 5:30 pm

Rosebank88 Connoisseur 86 19 jan 2018 6:20 pm

Gaija Expert Senior 88 26 jun 2018 3:37 pm

The best entry-level OB Islay in my view. Such subtletly, such coherency, and such display of what the Caol DNA can be ... at that age, proof and price, well, no wonder it's been my profile picture since the beginning hehe. Caol 12 is Caol 12 ; you can start looking for the most peculiar things during months and years, and then one day you get back to it, and you think, well, what have I been looking for elsewhere ? Can't go higher than 87 because it still feels a tiny-bit bourbon driven at times, I wish it was even more naked. But still worthy of a big fat 87 at least (and in that regard, I never understood how Laga 16 is being given such praise while this one isn't ; their relative quality is similar to me, that is to say very high. Caol 12 deserves more love !)

Mordeth Expert Senior 85 04 jul 2020 9:06 pm

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 86

hzs275 Connoisseur 86 18 feb 2022 9:19 am

нос 86 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

DDzip Expert Junior 86 10 may 2022 6:05 pm

Everything has already been said above An easy-access entry point for the uninitiated. Nice balance between fruit, salt and peat it offers a lot for a very reasonable price One of the best quality/price ratios on the market. Which earns him a few more points

PlainChandler Newbie 84 20 nov 2024 10:13 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	medicinal peat, sweetness, slight citrus
Вкус	84	salty, medicinal peat
Финиш	84	Mild, short

corred1964 Expert Senior 87 19 feb 2025 10:26 pm

Adore most expressions from Caol Ila and this is no exception, personally don't find the peat to be as strong an influence as I expected but it makes it's presence felt

нос 87 · вкус 89 · финиш 85

vladANDk Member Senior 93 06 apr 2025 8:50 pm

Aroma, taste, price.

drink_tony Expert Senior 84 04 may 2025 6:54 pm

90ClubWhisky Connoisseur 84 01 jul 2025 4:40 pm

2020 Rating

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

John_Doe_3 Member Junior 78 30 apr 2026 9:13 pm

I liked the smell, it's like Talisker 10 but more subtle. It was interesting. The taste is also basically okay, but while Talisker 10 is a bit of a peppery vodka, this one is really like smoking Captain Jack for the first time. The smoke was decent. The aftertaste is lingering. Overall, it's not bad, but it's an acquired taste. I like Talisker better so far.

Matt_River Expert Senior 84 22 jun 2026 7:35 am

I would go for laphroaig qc at similar price

Lafroy Expert Senior 74 16 may 2011 11:56 am

drkrylov Connoisseur 84 15 jul 2011 2:55 pm

D3US Expert Senior 83 11 nov 2012 9:29 pm

A classic Islay malt in my book. Enjoyable every time, though not a beast of a malt.

joep Expert Senior 84 05 feb 2014 9:43 pm

нос 80 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

Gloin Expert Senior 84 15 dec 2014 11:26 am

solid Islay smoker, 84 points

ApricotOne Expert Senior 85 04 apr 2015 2:18 pm

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 87

kalervo Member Senior 86 29 jun 2015 9:50 pm

Pleasant, smoky, rather light whisky. Bottle purchased Alloy and tasted at home from summer 2015 onwards.

Archer Connoisseur 86 22 jul 2015 1:47 pm

нос 87 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

Butz75 Expert Senior 80 12 sep 2015 1:01 pm

нос 80 · вкус 82 · финиш 78

fileosoph Expert Senior 84 23 dec 2015 8:13 am

нос 86 · вкус 86 · финиш 83

Mr.Edradour Connoisseur 77 05 mar 2016 11:26 am

нос 75 · вкус 70 · финиш 70

Helgo Connoisseur 83 11 sep 2017 3:23 pm

нос 82 · вкус 82 · финиш 83

Nestheth Member Senior 85 22 nov 2017 3:51 pm

нос 86 · вкус 85 · финиш 86

Corso_theRed Expert Senior 84 23 apr 2018 10:27 am

A staple of peated malt whisky I guess? I would have enjoyed it more with a sweeter mouth fell, however I can see the appeal of this for others. Very decent value for money.

jeoff Expert Junior 82 26 apr 2018 11:10 am

нос 83 · вкус 81 · финиш 82

Horror_Vacui Expert Senior 85 27 jul 2018 9:39 am

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

Tom na Gruagaich Connoisseur 85 30 jan 2019 5:04 pm

A no frills, good smoky whisky.

EnjoyLife89 Expert Senior 78 05 mar 2019 9:33 pm

I find the game between smoke, sweet and fruit very interesting. I liked that very much

AdamsB Expert Senior 84 18 may 2019 10:05 pm

Very good, smoky, peated whisky. Fantastic to alternative daily use.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	84	Fresh, mild, grassy, seaweed, juniper, peat, apples, iodine
Вкус	80	Peaty smoke, lemon peel, vanilla, oak, oily
Финиш	88	Long, smoky, citrus, slightly spicy, nutmeg

SRB Connoisseur 83 11 dec 2019 11:17 pm

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 82

Emperor69 Expert Junior 84 10 feb 2021 7:27 pm

Category: Single Malt Producer and bottler: Caol Ila Distillery (Diageo) Region: Islay Fortress: 43% Volume: 750 ml Bottling date: 11/21/2019 Barrel type: ? Age: 12 years old Filtering: ? Dye: present Aromatics. Weakly peaty release. No bonfires, conflagrations, smoking factories, rather soot and soot, cooled coals. Fine, beautiful, fresh, sour-salty, mineral nose. This is how the salty sea waves breaking on the rocky coast appear. There are also remarkable fruit and berry shades (lime, currant, gooseberry, kiwi, green apples, olives) that make this whisky related to a good white Sauvignon from New Zealand, the theme of apple-lemon pie, smoked bacon and some spices (pepper and vanilla), soda. If you are primarily attracted to burnt-peaty aromas, I recommend not to delay the “destruction” of the bottle too much, because. they become more and more depleted over time. Taste. All flavors are in perfect harmony with each other, smoothly flowing one into another, none of them "pulls the blanket" over itself, deliberately creeping out to the fore. On the palate, you can easily find fruits, burnt and smoked bacon, pepper, citrus zest, sea salt with subtle ink-iodine motifs, vanilla and some sweet pastries. Someone will say that the taste, perhaps, lacks density, richness and complexity, but such a “light” style also has the right to exist and personally evokes only positive emotions in me and is always ideal for any mood and circumstances. Aftertaste. As refreshing and sour as the main palate, not powerful, medium or just below average in duration. Weak peat trail, sea water, citrus fruits, vanilla. An excellent whisky for immersing neophytes in the peaty style in general and the Isles style in particular. Suitable for an experienced amateur, because the distillery clearly has its own unique style, which cannot be confused with other producers. Easily digestible, but very interesting and rich in various flavor and aroma nuances for a 12 year old whisky release. I love, appreciate and recommend to everyone. Rating: 84 out of 100.

Saftkenner Connoisseur 85 11 mar 2021 6:32 pm

Nice, and the aroma a really very independent standard bottling at a very fair price. Of course I would be happy if Caol Ila switched to 46% drinking strength, but that is probably not to be expected, any more than with Lagavulin.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Clearly noticeable smoke, stronger than usual with Bowmore, weaker than a Lagavulin or Laphroaig. The smoke aroma of this Caol Ila also has something quite unique, as if you had thrown fresh oranges into the fire, over which a fresh sea breeze blows. In addition, vanilla, delicate oak spice, slightly musty linen cloth and overripe kiwi.
Вкус	85	Slightly oily despite the low drinking strength. Smoke, orange, mushy kiwi, vanilla, a little salt, delicate oak spice (Bourbon barrel) and honey.
Финиш	84	Medium length. There remains a slightly ashy smoky note with honey and the softened kiwi fruit.

Benjamin_Wang Expert Junior 86 22 mar 2021 6:01 am

Light and fresh, with a lot of smoke.

Dutchdram Connoisseur 85 25 aug 2021 8:43 am

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	86	Maritime and peaty notes like peat, smoke, sea-air and a campfire. Also a salty note of smoked ham. It turns a bit sweet and fruity now with notes of vanilla and lemon. There is oil too. And at the end a hint of grass and a tiny bit of ashes.
Вкус	84	It starts sweet with a hint of vanillacake and boiled sweets. Ofcourse there is peat and smoke. It's oily with a hint of pears. At the end a little note of grass again.
Финиш	84	Medium-long with hints of vanilla, oak and a bit of smoke.

bankimate Connoisseur 84 02 mar 2022 1:11 am

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

zzqfyl Connoisseur 85 09 apr 2022 8:43 am

нос 86 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

samalo12 Member Senior 84 20 jan 2023 5:21 am

Caol Ila 12 - 43% CF, Colored Caol Ila 12, my second bottle from Islay. I got it as a present from my friend a year ago. Half-fill level. A great whisky for how neutered it is. This is standard mass-market ex-bourbon Islay.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	light citrus fruit, light malt honey, slightly lactic, green tea, saline, white smoke A good nose, but it lacks intensity.
Вкус	83	light, floral, slightly zesty, herbal complexity, lime peel, slightly lactic, white smoke, seaweed The palate lacks sufficient mouthfeel. Quite thin. Flavors are all there and in it to win it though. I wish there were more intensity.
Финиш	83	lingering moderate finish, slight, floral, herbal, seaweed, white smoke, astringency The finish has an astringency that is a bit overly harsh. Good, but not worth the current US price given all of the amazing offerings below $70 US. Spring for an Ardbeg 10 or Kilchoman Machir Bay instead. Spring for Finlaggan or Scarabus if you want a similar experience for far less money.

toksala Member Senior 66 01 apr 2023 5:19 pm

Typical Caol Ila.

marcusjang Expert Senior 86 21 jan 2024 1:12 pm

Blind sample I made a few years back. A bit weak for sure, but surprisingly complex with nice ripe red apples and long lasting minerality. I almost had a certain Campbeltown malt in mind while tasting.

DramALife Connoisseur 83 03 sep 2024 6:19 pm

S 7 Actually not bad even at 43%, vibrant smoke and juicy fruits. Consistent throughout in delivery. A great daily traditional peated Islay dram if in the £30 - £40 range. I’d imagine this goes well with baked lemon butter cod.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Fruity and slightly oily. Burning hay and barley smoke. Juicy gummy bears. Vanilla blossom. White pepper, cardamom, oak chunks. A whiff lemony. A little savoury. More menthol as it breathes. Quite refreshing.
Вкус	85	Peaty landing with waves of coastal breeze. Jalapeño. Tar. Earthy smoke. Bitter wood. Juicy yellow fruits. Vanilla syrup. Soft baking spices. A touch of citrusy. A touch of black tea.
Финиш	82	Long, slowly drying finish. Wood smoke and juicy yellow fruits.

Alp_Ozalp Expert Senior 86 06 dec 2024 12:05 pm

Ozzyosbourne007 Expert Senior 85 26 aug 2025 9:13 pm

Retasted at the distillery... Maybe the last bottle i had was better

BenNevis Expert Senior 72 20 feb 2011 7:36 pm

I dont like this, must be the worst whisky i have had. How has it got 84 points !!!!!!

Furtia Connoisseur 77 24 nov 2012 3:43 am

нос 74 · вкус 77 · финиш 73

Ian V Member Senior 82 09 dec 2012 6:57 pm

Caol Ila is in my top 5 favorite distilleries, but this expression is boring. Thin body, and there`s not enough of that wonderful motor oil I love so much in the CS Indy bottles. Oh well, if the lack of popularity of this 12yr helps keep the outstanding indy bottles so affordable, I`m all for it!

Wolv Expert Senior 87 26 jun 2014 1:48 am

нос 88 · вкус 87 · финиш 87

ColorOutOfSpace Expert Senior 83 15 jul 2014 9:08 pm

it has indeed lost deepth. i compared it directly with a small bottle from 2011.

нос 83 · вкус 83 · финиш 87

sopie Expert Junior 83 04 oct 2015 8:52 am

нос 85 · вкус 80 · финиш 80

Rozenbankje Expert Senior 87 02 dec 2015 8:34 am

нос 86 · вкус 87 · финиш 87

Landryn Expert Senior 83 04 jan 2016 11:24 pm

нос 81 · вкус 82 · финиш 85

domani Connoisseur 75 23 feb 2016 2:26 pm

A good, solid and easily accessible single malt that you can always drink - 06.12.2015

Dre73 Connoisseur 85 18 apr 2016 12:17 am

Nice decent peated whisky. Full of flavor, finds a nice balance between smoky smoky at the beginning, to some fruity afterwards, after which the finish is solid again. Pleasure to drink. Medicinal aspect is not too prominent.

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 86

medemaker Member Junior 83 22 oct 2016 7:36 pm

Peaty, dry, yeasty, slightly fruity, citrus, interesting whisky, worth the price

нос 82 · вкус 84 · финиш 82

Arno Pelgrim Expert Senior 84 18 dec 2016 5:22 pm

нос 84 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

FernetBranco Connoisseur 84 14 mar 2017 8:21 am

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 85

thijs100 Connoisseur 85 05 apr 2017 2:02 pm

A wonderful entry-level dram and a great introduction to what Caol Ila is all about.

Calmar Connoisseur 83 23 aug 2017 11:55 am

Molt pleasant, everything seems to be with him, but everything is too minimalist and simple, there is no personality in it, that is, some sort of raisin (in contrast, say, from the basic Ardbegs and Lafrougs). And the rest is very good - a spicy, well-balanced, absolutely non-spirituous, soft and warm whisky.

Edward MacKenzie Expert Senior 86 30 oct 2017 7:52 pm

I always like it better! An outstanding standard, PLV almost unbeatable! Gentle, soft smoke, not medically. Rather chimney smoke. Islay-typical salty, sea breeze, sea spray ...? Citrus but not as strong as Bowmore. Who does not know him yet, definitely try! Also for advanced very recommendable! 86/100

Nestheth Member Senior 85 22 nov 2017 1:39 pm

Good entry level stuff. Calls for strength in alcohol, body and taste.

Oldpultnie Connoisseur 82 20 feb 2018 12:11 pm

2nd review after 17 months. WB average value went up with 9 € in less than 1,5 year and the overall rating came down for this bottle from 86 to 83.63 points. Very slow and oily tears in the glass (sorry if this is a pleonasm). An almost perfect peaty smoke aroma. Fresh sour touch. More sour apple and soft lime than strong citrus. Pears and malty vanilla. Beautiful nose all together. For taste I get the better entry this week. Of course you get that little oily and peaty taste in front but it comes with a complex variation of flavours. There's that malt vanilla, sweet pears, tobacco smoke and spices all fighting for the best place but they stay in line in a very good balance. Perfect standard whisky for a good price.

нос 86 · вкус 87 · финиш 85

Horror_Vacui Expert Senior 85 27 jul 2018 9:38 am

Batch: L8022

The_Chilicatch Newbie 84 31 aug 2019 10:16 pm

Wonderful medical smoke, which is replaced by a beautiful, sweet and full body. I wish for a better synthesis of these two sides. For me they are sometimes a bit unconnected side by side. But that may be a matter of taste. Definitely a must have in the bar!

Svarttt Expert Senior 84 03 oct 2020 9:27 pm

Still a very underrated malt. Smoke that is not too intrusive, nice citrus notes, decent mouthfeel. Sensible ABV. What more could you want from a 12 year old original bottling.

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

Foudos Connoisseur 83 15 feb 2021 4:26 pm

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 83

LaurensVD Expert Junior 81 09 jun 2021 9:40 pm

нос 85 · вкус 79 · финиш 78

Don Cassi Expert Senior 80 08 jul 2021 10:36 am

Very light and fresh on the nose, dried lemon peel with some banana, vanilla and seaweed. Relatively watery in the mouth and slightly spicy. In the finish with and with cold ash, behind that green banana and some wood. Length: 7/10 All in all, a solid smoker who suffers a little from the alcohol content. Also inferior in character to a Kilchoman or Ardbeg with similar parameters in my opinion. Grade: 2+

90ClubWhisky Connoisseur 84 04 aug 2021 3:49 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Smoke, a smoldering fire. Ash. Sea of citrus. Sliced lemon sprinkled with ashes. Sweetness, caramel. Salt, sea. A pinch of spices. Traces of pepper and ginger.
Вкус	85	Smoke, ash, fire. Sea of citrus. A lemon in an dying out fire. Sea, salt. Sweetness. Caramel. Salty caramel. Interwoven smoky, fruity, sweet and spicy aromas. A pinch of spices. Light ginger.
Финиш	84	The smoke extinguishes the fire. Fresh fruit, citrus. Sea, salt. Sweetness, salty caramel. Medium-long finish.

uap304 Expert Senior 87 15 feb 2022 1:04 pm

Caol Ila 12 This was a re-taste after many years of a Drinks By The Dram sample. It really surprised me how much better this was than in my memory. Maybe not very complex, but close to nectar on this night with this sample. Cheers!

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	89	It feels light, very approachable, not overwhelming, really not smoky at all but rather earthy, vegetal, ash tray, seaweed, and celery. There is a soft sweetness, with oranges and lemon, maybe grapefruit rind.
Вкус	89	Tangy attack, beautifully effervescent. Becoming sweet, delicious, refreshing and mouth-watering. How is this so good?! Piquant pepper, spicy citrus. Lemonade, eventually becoming bitter but only after 30-45 seconds sustained on the palate. Somehow, the taste of smoke and ash and dirt transitions right on into the finish. This dram is perfectly balanced.
Финиш	89	Medium length finish actually. Beautiful wisps of smoke. Ashtray and faint cigarettes elsewhere in the room. Some oak, a little drying, but not really bitter and actually more sweet than anything. Latterly, some milk chocolate in the background, salt brine, and candied oranges. Utterly delicious!

WhiskeyfanRoy Expert Junior 85 29 jun 2022 7:29 am

Nice peated whisky. The production of this distillery is among the best even in the Diageo group, but its taste is still exquisite, and it has not lost its level because of its production. The whole is biased towards bourbon barrels, full of floral peat, Very similar to Ledaig 10yo in my tasting experience, It's a pity that this bottle of Caol Ila 12yo has a sour taste of overripe citrus, which I personally don't like. And the ABV% is only 43%, resulting in a slightly inferior odor performance. The taste score is 85, and the price doesn't affect the score.

Taribo Member Senior 84 02 sep 2022 10:32 am

нос 86 · вкус 83 · финиш 83

_Dziki_ Connoisseur 82 24 dec 2022 8:52 am

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	82	Hospital, asphalt, pharmacy.
Вкус	82	Just like in the aroma, there are also potatoes burnt in a bonfire, a bit of citrus.
Финиш	81	Medium, smoky and ashy

WhiskyLaddie Expert Senior 81 03 dec 2023 3:16 pm

Tasting note from 4th of February 2005. Enjoyed at Bishops Arms pub in Helsingborg, Sweden

Montezuma Expert Senior 81 24 feb 2024 3:08 am

12/16/2023 30 ml A classic, everyone should try it, as it brings together the best of the world of ex-bourbon with an ever-present and light peat. Pleasant. One day I will have a bottle, God willing!

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Pineapple, new wood, light smoke, vanilla finally in 2nd place, baked pineapple; honey, yellow flowers, no alcohol, just a hint of white pepper. Take malt with vanilla. Sweet. Sparkling wine and white wine. Pleasant due to the smoke. With smoke water oozing from a grill with meat, and citrus and ex-bourbon sweetness.
Вкус	80	Citrus, vanilla, sweet, honey, propolis, light smoke, almost no alcohol. With water it keeps the peat in balance with the sweetness.
Финиш	80	Citrus, vanilla, light ember, honey, some yellow flowers and cooked fruits.

Georges Connoisseur 82 12 may 2024 9:56 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	82	Peat smoke, fresh, herbal, mint, grassy, tobacco, smoked ham, citrus
Вкус	82	Smoky, oily, ashy, tar, oysters, fruity (pears, lemons), bacon, vanilla
Финиш	81	Medium long, smoky, peppery, spicy, sweet, citrus

RamiW Expert Senior 84 28 jun 2024 8:20 pm

Very nice Islay whisky. Slightly watery but overall well balanced. I feel like lighting the BBQ after half a dram.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	85	Smoke, grilled meat, light peat, salty seaside air, orange
Вкус	85	Salty, smoky, herbal, smoked speck, smooth
Финиш	83	Medium long, light peat smoke, pleasant but mild

Ozzyosbourne007 Expert Senior 85 29 sep 2024 12:05 pm

A great classic! But somehow it feels like a few drops of sherry is added... Great!

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	86	Meaty, peaty.. Sweet classic smoke, citrus... Feels like hints of sherry... Green notes and chocolate...
Вкус	87	Vanilla, meaty, sweet smoke.. Sherried again??
Финиш	87	Drying lasting smoke... Sherry + chocolate once again...

WhiskyLovingPianist Connoisseur 85 28 jan 2025 6:13 pm

https://whiskylovingpianist.wordpress.com/2024/12/23/loose-ends-december-2024/ N: Far sweeter, less bitter char [in comparison to Laphroaig 10], milky,… T: Checks out. As competent as the Lagavulin that follows, and some. F: A promising green olive oil finish under a dryer ex-bourbon wood conclusion reminds me of how the 12yo was some twenty years ago. C: Much cleaner and clear-headed than the Laphroaig 10 and significantly better than when I tried this at Feis Ile in 2018 [WLP81].

HothGunner Newbie 94 01 mar 2025 10:51 am

It’s lemon-butter sauteed broccoli, toasty walnuts and charcoal, all wrapped in a nice blanket of olive oil - if olive oil had no sour notes. A little grilled lemon-seasoned salmon on the nose and first taste

Alilo Member Junior 85 18 mar 2025 8:09 pm

This is a great value whisky, reminds me of Lagavulin 16,not just because of the bottle. Sweet smoke, beautifully integrated. I call it thinking whisky, makes me wanna be alone, with a pipe, reading or writing. Bottle that I will buy again. Fairly oily, medium plus body, finish short. Whisky got flat but only after a year and when it was 4/5 empty.

TomyCyber Expert Junior 76 05 apr 2026 9:37 pm

August 28, 2022 76 / 100 Color: Straw, caramel colored. AROMA - 19 / 25 Peaty and sweet. Delicate notes of citrus and prunes, maple syrup, and a subtle aroma of old barrels. Alcohol under control, overall simple and pleasant. TASTE - 18 / 25 A campfire with notes of banana and caramel, and a significant tannin content. Alcohol is controlled, but I expected more excitement. FINISH - 20 / 25 Pleasant, quite long and pungent with a hint of dark chocolate. BALANCE - 19 / 25 After drinking many others and getting to know the potential of the independent IB, it no longer impresses, but without taking it away, it is a pleasant, simple, tasty, peaty Whisky, a great way to start your Islay adventure.

WARciech Expert Senior 85 05 aug 2026 1:20 pm

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 85

Quaker Member Senior 84 22 mar 2011 1:28 pm

A bit monolithic but in the good sense of the term (still needs to like this style). Perfect in daily dram and very affordable.

Jonkers Expert Senior 88 03 dec 2012 3:06 pm

Perfect balanced and a great aperitif.

Stenface Expert Junior 81 11 apr 2014 9:36 pm

нос 82 · вкус 83 · финиш 75

Achany Connoisseur 85 03 jun 2014 9:47 pm

нос 84 · вкус 86 · финиш 86

Myst111 Expert Senior 88 09 jan 2015 10:06 pm

нос 95 · вкус 86 · финиш 82

Astrid Connoisseur 88 17 mar 2015 8:13 pm

нос 91 · вкус 86 · финиш 87

carokann Member Senior 88 11 aug 2015 7:05 am

Color: golden yellow Nose: light smoke, wood, citrus fruits, wet leather, tobacco (?), Salt Palate: At first, it seems a bit watery, but only to immediately overtake itself in a taste explosion! Quite bulky for 43%. The aromas, especially the smoke, are well integrated and it spreads a pleasant warmth in the mouth. Wood notes are clearly perceptible. Finish: Long finish, which surprised me positively in this intensity. Light to medium astringent, which makes the overall impression very good for me. Conclusion: Who can do something with the Laga 16 and the Talisker 10, is in good hands with the CI 12. Value-for-money Whisky!

нос 87 · вкус 84 · финиш 88

yggr Connoisseur 83 26 jan 2016 11:59 pm

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 82

Rogier Engel Expert Senior 81 29 jan 2016 1:26 pm

A lovely Islay, value for money.

нос 83 · вкус 81 · финиш 81

Hobbit Expert Senior — 27 mar 2016 11:26 am

easily accessible, simple but very one-dimensional malt, the smoke never overpowers but it lacks corners and edges, slightly watery

Dre73 Connoisseur 85 18 apr 2016 12:13 am

Decent peated whisky. Comes firmly inside, both in smell and taste, but then shows its friendlier side. And you can enjoy yourself for a long time.

Dramned! Expert Senior 81 28 may 2016 3:36 pm

нос 81 · вкус 80 · финиш 80

Oldpultnie Connoisseur 82 13 sep 2016 3:43 pm

Looking forward to try a few independent bottlers of this interesting whisky.

нос 80 · вкус 81 · финиш 80

boy_genius_ck Connoisseur 83 10 dec 2016 1:39 am

нос 85 · вкус 82 · финиш 79

Era68 Member Senior 79 04 jan 2017 6:20 pm

нос 80 · вкус 79 · финиш 75

uap304 Expert Senior 87 30 jan 2017 6:03 am

I found this a bit demure actually. Fairly well-balanced but not the most inspiring peated I-slayer.

anibalec Member Senior 82 18 feb 2018 11:56 pm

Rien Connoisseur 84 25 feb 2018 7:39 pm

нос 83 · вкус 83 · финиш 82

Max70 Connoisseur 89 04 jun 2018 9:37 pm

нос 89 · вкус 88 · финиш 90

martinbutterfly Expert Senior 83 20 jul 2020 2:34 pm

*** ????: white wine ????: intense peat, warm seaweed, fresh, cut, young, slightly biting, sweet, ????: spicy, astringent, intensely peat, slightly spicy, sweet, flattens quickly, ????: smoky, sweet, short, slightly warming, a bit tart at the end * Basic "warm and seaweed" peat, no special depth etc, it was a bit short of "OK". * ????: 3.5 / 10 ????: 83/100

TheWhiskybossch Connoisseur 75 15 aug 2020 2:13 am

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	70	Peat, dry soil, wild nature, tar
Вкус	72	Sweet, again the peat, few other flavors discovered
Финиш	72	Short but sweet

SimondeVette Expert Senior 80 17 feb 2021 2:26 pm

A typical Islay, but smoother. Way smoother than I suspected

jvanopstal Expert Senior 82 01 apr 2021 11:01 am

At first sight a typical heavy peated Islay whisky, but surprisingly sweeter and more delicate than expected

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	81	Heavy peated with also fruit scents (citrus)
Вкус	82	Oily with some smoke. Lighter than expected from its smell. Later more fruit
Финиш	83	Long with smoke and sweet flavours

Kraddell Expert Junior 62 24 sep 2021 1:31 am

Sample from 'the tasting collection'. Pours a rather light yellow, with only a milder golden shine. Aroma is strong - to say the least. Even pouring the sample out fills the room with aroma's. Scent is strong peaty, sharp dirt, smoke, ashy, burnt wood almost. Not my type of nose - as expected. Taste is medium intense, charred barrel, dirt, peat ( who'd expect ? ) full, woody side that goes well with the peat. however, where the ardbeg Ubigail ( sorry if I butchered that name ) provided a decent mouth and an amazing finish, this whisky evolves less to me. It circles more around the peat, and offers little outside of that. Definately not undrinkable or anything like that, just not for me.

Petitcham Expert Senior 85 12 mar 2023 10:04 am

Caol ila's unique character is abundant, rich body compared to alcohol strength, intuitive and richer fruit than expected, very good whisky for price

riven1824 Expert Senior 81 01 jun 2023 3:21 pm

нос 82 · вкус 81 · финиш 81

Predator Newbie 86 06 dec 2023 7:11 pm

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	86	Light, volatile, refreshing. Peat smoke, hay, moss, sweetish, compote, wet earth, sea, delicate notes of iodine and seaweed, forest fruits
Вкус	86	Smokehouse, pine resin, hay, leather, seaweed, moss, ash, mint, cloves, medicines
Финиш	85	Smoky and peaty with notes of strawberries

Romansen Connoisseur 83 28 jan 2024 10:02 pm

нос 83 · вкус 83 · финиш 82

Mugis Expert Senior 85 13 oct 2024 2:08 am

eselsim Expert Senior 84 09 nov 2024 11:38 pm

нос 83 · вкус 84 · финиш 84

CellarToberi Expert Senior 91 14 may 2025 11:27 pm

Rounded smoky full-bodied goodness. Matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks. Slowly forming primary legs. Narrow secondary legs. Chill-filtered. Coloured. A classic Islay scotch. Interesting interplay between the smoke and the water added.

jakubpoltoraczyk Member Senior 82 07 dec 2025 2:13 pm

Aroma: Gentle and subtle, vegetal, grassy, slightly salty, evoking an abandoned grassy beach, fading bonfire smoke, sweet notes, lemon, and lemon zest Taste: Sweet and smoky, with citrus notes at first, slightly vegetal, followed by a smoke that fades pleasantly, mildly spicy, with a fairly long, smoky, dying finish Overall Impression: An ideal introduction to Islay whisky, the smokiness isn’t overwhelming and is well balanced with the vegetal–citrus profile, a good whisky at a reasonable price

aborovikov Expert Junior 86 20 mar 2026 2:11 am

нос 85 · вкус 86 · финиш 86

Collector57 Expert Senior 86 07 sep 2011 6:21 pm

Smoke goes right through this malt as does the marine character. 2 or three minutes later I'm now getting a fishy and spicy finish

mmaclean Connoisseur 85 11 jan 2012 8:14 pm

"Medium weight, but still packing plenty of potent phenols, this is a refined, powerful dram with a compensating oiliness. A balanced, peaty beauty." International Wine & Spirits Competition 2010: Gold Medal - Best in Class; Trophy for Best Single Malt Whisky Under 15 Years Old TWE

HunterRomario Expert Senior 84 24 may 2012 11:23 am

If you like and look for something similar, try Caol Ila 13th Manzanilla finish by Chieftain's or BenRiach 12y Herodotus Fumosus.

karloff Connoisseur 73 31 jul 2012 10:37 pm

This is a nice malt but it is no where near as good as it`s sister whisky Lagavulin which is a much more balanced malt. I bought this at the distillery after the tour.

нос 65 · вкус 80 · финиш 77

whiskeyjedi Member Senior 84 20 jul 2014 1:46 pm

12-year-old Caol Ila Tasted 2014-07-20 @ WhiskyInteam Spaden Reminiscent of campfires, full-bodied sharply with heather and complex, very good! 84

Astrid Connoisseur 88 17 mar 2015 7:54 pm

Fortunately reminiscent of a 16-year-old Lagavulin, from which one has removed his fruity subset. Overall, this single malt shines with soothing smoke and spice, while the sweetness is not neglected. The flavor levels that are included are wonderfully mastered.

wbarchive_149037 Expert Senior 85 14 apr 2015 8:03 am

Very nice profile, very singular among the Islay entry levels. Both fresh and oily, i liked it. Worth a try.

dirkmemphis Photo Moderator 84 27 may 2015 9:36 pm

нос 82 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

Bart&Claudia Expert Junior 80 30 jul 2015 10:20 am

What kind of peat is this? It is the most easygoing I have tasted thus far. Can't shake the carribean sphere of this scotch. Reminds me of partagas cigars. Really enjoyed the nose. The finish is not my cup of tea. Maybe a little bit too sweet, which only appeals to part of my palate. Initial mark: 83/100 Most recent mark: 80/100

recursiewhisky Expert Senior — 31 jan 2016 11:37 am

Very tough and yet delicate whisky !! Who can be sure

Jon Osterman Member Junior 87 05 feb 2016 8:05 pm

I like this whisky a lot, and find it to be somewhat underrated. I end up enjoying this as much as almost any other of the widely available peated single malts (at this price range). I don't find this to be "worse" than the Lagavulin 16, or the Ardbeg 10, just different. Plus, it is refreshingly pale for a whisky that does not claim to be (so far as I know) natural color. Holding a glass of this side by side with JW Black Label brought me a chuckle.

Bart Joosten Expert Senior 85 28 mar 2016 8:36 pm

нос 81 · вкус 89 · финиш 85

sascuas Expert Senior 85 05 sep 2016 9:44 pm

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 90

Oldpultnie Connoisseur 82 06 sep 2016 11:57 am

Is not bad for the price and i'm looking forward for an other version of Caol Ila to try.

Opeth83 Expert Senior 83 24 oct 2016 8:04 pm

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 82

Waykid Expert Senior 84 06 nov 2016 9:52 pm

If you go for an islayer and are starting the journey, go for this! Clean and crisp, the profile is strong enough for the low strength and some nice strong peat with lemony and tarry tones. Juts very, very nice.

boy_genius_ck Connoisseur 83 10 dec 2016 1:32 am

like a full flavored (more potent) version of connemara original

Era68 Member Senior 79 04 jan 2017 6:19 pm

Good Daily, interesting and definitely worth a try for the price.

McKen Member Senior — 23 jan 2017 8:22 pm

84/100

ChrisSym Expert Senior 82 28 jun 2018 8:33 pm

Very successful standard, which is very independent and leaves a great impression with pleasant freshness and enough corners and edges.

Glenjasper Connoisseur 84 11 jan 2019 11:52 am

нос 87 · вкус 82 · финиш 84

hs305 Connoisseur 87 17 aug 2019 9:46 pm

This is the review of the very first release of the standard 12-years old Caol Ila from 2002 (hence distilled in 1990). [August, 2019] After an interesting old versus new head-to-head of the standard 18-years old Caol Ila edition that resulted in significant differences (3 points) I decided to do the same with the 12-years old standard edition. It is a head-to-head of the 2018 release (NEW, WB id 120834) versus this first ever bottling from 2002 (OLD, there is neither a Classic Malts logo nor a www.malts.com reference on the back label)... ...and the differences between these two are again significant. OLD is a typical old Traditional Scotch dram (distillate-driven, more complex, balanced all the time) while NEW shows elements of the modern whisky style already (much more wood-driven which leads to an imbalace during the finish, less complex). Guess what I prefer (by two points)?

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	87	The colour of OLD is two shades darker at old gold than NEW which is at jonquiripe corn (despite they used caramel on NEW). The nose of OLD offers a balanced sweet-peaty pofile with honeys, ripe yellow fruits, barley sugars and maritime-peaty aromas. The smoke grows stronger upon breathing without harming the balance as additional waxy and autumn floral notes join in as well. A pretty fine nose for a 12-years old, indeed1 NEW offers a quite different profile with shy unripe green fruits, more sugars and a different smokey impression (no maritime notes, rather like a cold bonfire). It is balanced too with more wood impact, but much simplier than OLD. I clearly prefer the nose from 2002.
Вкус	87	The taste of OLD is quite bold on delicious sweet flavours over fine peat smoke notes. The fruits are present all the time as are the barley sugars, later some waxes and meaty notes (smoked bacon) join in. It is not very complex but it is a tasty mix, easy to quaff. NEW's taste is much more wood-driven with sweet barley sugars balancing the bitter tannins nicely. It is easy drinkble too but a complete different style. Again I prefer OLD clearly.
Финиш	88	OLD arrives warming and instantly coating on the palate without distracting moments. The initial mouthfeel of NEW is warming and coating too but a little less impressive with a minor bitter-astringent moment (tannins at work). Both drams own a long finish where OLD adds some spices and herbal impressions without distracting moments at all. NEW turns more bitter during the finish with a drying mouthfeel, now the tannins of the wood take control and drive NEW out of balance, unfortunately. Water is not needed on both.

SCHREDDER Connoisseur 84 29 oct 2021 9:47 am

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 83

WhiskyLovingPianist Connoisseur 85 02 sep 2022 10:36 am

https://whiskylovingpianist.wordpress.com/2022/09/02/friday-night-four-caol-ila-dornoch-glentauchers-highland-park/ The last time I tried this classic was in 2018 [WLP81], so I’m due a revisit. N: A forward/vibrant/crisp oily peated nose, this is just as good as I remember it being fifteen years ago. T: It’s on the palate where my memory of this one differs and where I think it’s changed. It’s lost its [olive] oils for starters and is decidedly less vegetal. F: A mildly savoury-sweet finish with new if soft wood-dry smoke. C: I find this go-to Islay classic a few degrees better than in 2018, mostly down to that excellent nose. The rest is perfectly ‘fine’ if lacking intent.

Jabarkas Expert Junior 85 24 dec 2022 7:38 pm

This is probably the first peaty whisky I had more than ten years ago. I liked it, but my love for peat really came to fruition years later. In my opinion there are nowadays a bit better options in this category. Ledaig 10 comes to mind as a similar combination of peat and maritime notes. And it has 46% (over that even). If you want to get the gentle side of Islay peat, this would be it though. There is a lot of peat though. Not Ardbeg 10 levels. But relatively close to that.

cycloman Expert Senior 84 15 oct 2023 5:25 pm

нос 85 · вкус 83 · финиш 85

pwal Member Senior 85 10 feb 2024 9:19 pm

Peatedpeaty Expert Junior 83 16 feb 2024 7:47 pm

A nice sipper, missing some % for complexity.

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 83

Nomorewh Expert Senior 85 23 may 2024 5:01 pm

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 84

MarcelWhiskyPanda Expert Senior 83 28 dec 2024 4:08 pm

Bottle open for about 1.5 years Fill level 50%

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	83	Warming sweet smoke with lots of lemon (Smoldering fire with lemon peel) But smoke is not too strong Grilled hazelnuts Sauna wood with sweet lemon and pineapple on the stove Orange liqueur Minimal vanilla and ginger
Вкус	84	Slightly watery for an Islay malt because of the 43% Oily at first Warming, sweet smoke that becomes slightly coal-like Fruit is present in the form of lemon and pineapple Hazelnuts
Финиш	83	Long Sweet citrus smoke lingers in the mouth Especially on the cheeks Some oak at the end

Totoro Connoisseur 88 20 mar 2025 7:04 pm

Review of a bottle bought in 2022 — much better than earlier versions, IMHO. I used to have this around 86 points, but now we‘re at 88.

нос · вкус · финиш

Нос	88	It seems they used more sherry casks and quite some older malts for this one. More depth and umami than I remember this to have.
Вкус	87	Sure, it‘s only 43 percent, but that’s the only possible knock on this. Otherwise unassailable.
Финиш	88	Peaty, herbal, honey-sweet, with an oily texture. Astoundingly good for an entry-level bottling.

KFC_Warrior Member Senior 86 22 apr 2025 3:05 pm

smoke burnt sugar mineral notes A little bit of spice and spiciness very tasty

malograna Expert Senior 86 02 jun 2026 8:57 am

нос 85 · вкус 85 · финиш 85

CrilleVBG Expert Senior 84 29 may 2010 2:53 pm

Good standard whisky, not as wild as Laphroaig and Ardbeg.

I_SPEY Expert Senior 82 04 jun 2011 6:35 pm

I think the colour of this whisky is pale straw, with a peaty nose as well as some fruit; the taste is a little briny with peat, lemon and (too much) salt; this whisky finishes long with a good peat and tar aroma. I like this whisky, but it`s certainly not a top whisky; more a moderate one!

christophe_carles Expert Junior 83 08 oct 2011 8:58 am

нос 84 · вкус 83 · финиш 83

Whiskyblend Member Senior 77 26 jan 2012 11:12 am

Nice Dailydram but nothing special

karloff Connoisseur 73 31 jul 2012 10:02 pm

A lovely malt but it's not the best of the islay whiskies, not the worst either

granella2003 Connoisseur 91 14 oct 2012 12:26 pm

A classic Isaly peated-smoke malt, with a low price for his quality. Undubitable one of best dram that you can find in ordinary market-retailers

Malt Hans Connoisseur 86 08 nov 2012 9:52 pm

Smoky and fruity aroma, banana, tar, yellow apples, honey, cardamom and fir branches. Medium sweet taste, juniper berries, pepper, smoked mackerel, peated malt and vanilla. Long smoky and malty end.

Roosty Expert Senior 85 07 dec 2013 12:09 am

A classic! Iodized / smoked profile quite well balanced and very appreciable, but too one-dimensional. A good introduction to the Caol Ila range. And very good value for money.

ricallende Expert Senior 76 13 jun 2014 1:36 am

нос 77 · вкус 77 · финиш 75

MalzKult Connoisseur 84 08 sep 2014 3:53 pm

Balanced and surprisingly sweet.

hartist Expert Senior 83 25 nov 2014 3:06 pm

Essential to apprehend the world of islay and peat. Excellent value.

Bishlouk Connoisseur 84 30 mar 2015 10:28 pm

Frankly, a nice surprise; I was expecting the worst. In the end, an entry-level that is a very good introduction to peat. A nice whisky as a whole.

lucbertrand Member Junior — 23 jul 2015 9:52 am

Fine peat, very good 4/5

hfos Expert Senior 81 18 nov 2015 9:28 pm

нос 82 · вкус 80 · финиш 81

tkoppelaar Expert Junior 83 17 jan 2016 8:16 pm

нос 85 · вкус 84 · финиш 82

jamesis48 Member Junior 87 16 mar 2016 9:26 am

Overall sweet and spicy with a slightly fruity scent but I felt that the finish could have been longer. Quite balanced with not too much peat. Great for beginners to intermediate drinkers who are focusing on Islay based distilleries. Great value for money.

нос 87 · вкус 90 · финиш 80

C.H.M. Member Senior 81 28 mar 2016 10:11 pm

Delicious. If you need something strong. I miss the complex notes.

kot1803 Connoisseur 85 14 jul 2016 11:49 am

нос 86 · вкус 84 · финиш 84

hs305 Connoisseur 87 02 may 2017 2:19 pm

[November, 2010] I had this during a community tasting near Bonn.In my old rating system (ten scales that translate into WB points: 50 - 66 - 75 - 80 - 82,5 - 85 - 87,5 - 90 - 92,5 - 95) I scored it 85. My notes state simply "a typical young Caol Ila"...

larswehmeier Connoisseur 81 26 mar 2018 8:33 pm

WhiskyLovingPianist Connoisseur 85 22 apr 2019 9:45 pm

https://whiskylovingpianist.wordpress.com/2019/04/22/feis-ile-2018-caol-ila-part-1/ N: I’m pleased to report the 12yo still has that notable oily brininess [on the nose at least], with a touch of smokey bacon. T: Decidedly lacklustre after the initial stages. Though the smoke >> vegetal character is likeable, it’s not as oily rich as I’ve remembered it in the past. F: Evaporates to a mild something-ness. C: I used to regard the Caol Ila 12yo as a go-to, though admittedly, some years have past. [Scores 81 points] TAKE 2 - around an hour later N: Wtf, really? Core range juice on free pour in the courtyard! “Seaweed and iodine”, says the manager. Good, let’s move on. T: Light dry smoke, no body. With respect to the already sacrificed in my name, I eat my first and possibly last oyster. It’s of the sea for sure, accompanied by actual gravel in iodine. The oyster is of more interest in the moment,…. F: ,… and dominates my palate completely. Food pairing, honestly ! C: Oysters, what’s that all about? The taste of the sea/fish farm, literally. The whisky scores 81 again.

Whisky Hamster Expert Senior 79 10 mar 2021 5:12 pm

Not bad but far behind what Caol Ila could bottle as a 12 yo standard in my opinion. Start by making it an integrity malt with no chillfiltration, no color and bottled at 46/48% abv. The potential is there...

LDB Connoisseur 84 30 mar 2021 9:33 am

Okayish, but it comes out a bit rough and industrial over with cutter diesel, heavy fuel oil and sooty smokehouse.

нос 83 · вкус 85 · финиш 83

rich_93 Expert Senior 87 15 may 2021 11:50 pm

A seriously complex dram, incredible value for money.

BarrelBeast Expert Senior 83 31 may 2021 6:56 am

Youtube Review: https://youtu.be/5mnD_hUuRfA

нос 84 · вкус 84 · финиш 82

The_Osprey Expert Senior 85 10 jul 2022 9:23 pm

Caol Ila 12 year old, SMSW 43%. 30ml sample June 2022. Natural-looking paleish yellow. Aroma is a nice mix. All the following mix into one another: Vanilla and biscuit, salted rusks, seaweed, cat paws, minty alcohol, burnt seeds, celery. Plenty going on. There’s a sweetness that’s mostly caramelised but could imply tropical fruit. Body is moderately oily. Taste is light and easy up front, soft salt and smoke behind the easy watered-down spirit impressions. The spirit is at the fore of the flavour and the cask just brings a little supporting vanilla-like sweetness. No real heat to it at all (and this is my first whisky of the evening). The aroma has a few different things going on whereas the palate delivers salt and subtle smoke in a more straight-forward way. The typical Caol Ila brine carries on into the linger and the breathy smoke starts to build given time. Becoming seaweedy on the palate after two thirds of the dram are gone. It’s a classic profile at a great price (available at £31 a 70cl bottle at the time of drinking). It’s lovely, but not capable of ousting the south Islay trio from my whisky shelf. 3.575/85