Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 year old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 43%

An independent bottler puts the spotlight on Caol Ila's distillate from a single vintage.

Expert description

Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is an independent bottling from Signatory Vintage, distilled in 2010 and bottled in 2021 after 10 years of maturation, bottled at 43%. Caol Ila Distillery was founded in 1846 on the shore of the Sound of Islay, from which the distillery also takes its name — Gaelic for 'Sound of Islay'. The distillery is today owned by Diageo and is one of Islay's largest producers, although much of its output has traditionally gone into blended whisky such as Johnnie Walker. Despite its peated character, Caol Ila is often somewhat lighter and more elegant than several of Islay's other distilleries.

Tasting notes

Nose

The nose is smoky with sea breeze, citrus and a hint of grain.

Palate

The palate offers smoke, citrus and light sweetness.

Finish

The finish is medium to long, smoky and fairly gentle.

Specifications

Name: Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 år Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery: Caol Ila
Bottler: Signatory Vintage
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 10 years
Distilled: 2010
Bottled: 2021
ABV: 43%
Size: 70 CL

Flavour profile

Smoky · Maritime · Citrus-forward · Elegant

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Frequently asked questions about Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 år Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Why is Caol Ila often lighter than other Islay whiskies?

Although the whisky is peated, Caol Ila's style is traditionally known to be somewhat more elegant and less powerful in smoke than, for example, Laphroaig or Ardbeg.

How is Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 år Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky best served?

Neat or with a few drops of water to open up the aromas.

What is an independent bottling?

It's a whisky where the distillation itself was carried out by the named distillery, but where an external bottler such as Signatory Vintage has selected the cask and handles maturation and bottling.

How should Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 year old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 43% be stored?

Standing upright, cool and dark, like any other spirits bottle. Once opened, the contents keep best if enjoyed within a year or so.

Is Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 year old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 43% a good gift idea?

Yes, Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 year old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 43% is a natural choice for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and characterful flavour experiences — especially for the whisky enthusiast keen to explore beyond the most familiar names.

What food pairs well with Caol Ila 2010/2021 Signatory Vintage 10 year old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 43%?

Good with dark chocolate, aged cheese or nuts, all of which match the whisky's body without overpowering it.