Caol Ila 2014/2021 Murray McDavid 6 year old casks #2005618 Single Islay Malt Whisky 46%

Pedro Ximenez is the sweetest sherry that exists – thick, dark and almost syrupy. When Caol Ila's peat smoke encounters seven months in PX hogsheads, the result is surprisingly subtle: the sweetness works its way into the smoke and gives it a fruity, dried dimension.

Expert's description

Caol Ila 2014/2021 Murray McDavid 6 Years Benchmark Series is an Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in bourbon hogshead casks with a finish in Ximenez-Spinola PX sherry hogshead casks (nos. 2005618/19/23), bottled at 46% without chill filtration and with natural colour.

Murray McDavid's Benchmark Series is an experimental line that systematically explores cask combinations in larger batches. The PX finish here lasts seven months – short enough to preserve Caol Ila's character, long enough for the Spanish dessert wine to leave its mark.

1,242 bottles were produced. Ximenez-Spinola is one of the most acclaimed PX houses in Jerez, and it is from them that Murray McDavid sourced these casks.

Tasting notes

Nose

Dried fruit – raisins and dark plums – blends with Caol Ila's maritime smoke. A note of mocha and orange peel gives depth.

Palate

Delicate and fruity. Smoke and PX sweetness find each other in good balance. Mocha, dark dried fruit and a soft, lightly oily texture.

Finish

Gentle and lingering. Smoke and sweetness fade side by side with a fresh note of smoke and fruit at the end.

Specifications

Name: Caol Ila 2014/2021 Murray McDavid 6 Years Benchmark – PX Sherry Finish
Distillery: Caol Ila Distillery
Bottler: Murray McDavid
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 6 years
ABV: 46%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Bourbon hogshead with PX sherry hogshead finish
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distilled: 2014
Bottled: 2021
Number of bottles: 1,242
Series: Benchmark Series
EAN no.: 5060353302669

Flavour profile

Peated · Fruity · PX-sweet · Delicate · Maritime

Did you know?

The Pedro Ximenez grape is grown in the Jerez region of Spain and is one of the world's sweetest and most concentrated varieties. The wines produced from it are so thick they almost pour like syrup.

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Frequently asked questions about Caol Ila 2014/2021 Murray McDavid 6 Years PX Sherry Finish

Is Caol Ila Murray McDavid PX finish worth it?

Yes. PX sherry finish on a young Caol Ila is an unusual combination, and the result is delicate and complex. 1,242 bottles at 46% without chill filtration is a solid choice.

What is PX sherry finish?

Pedro Ximenez is the sweetest sherry type – almost syrupy. PX casks give dried fruit, raisins and dark sweetness to whisky. The result is darker and sweeter than standard sherry casks.

What is the difference between the Cognac finish and the PX finish from Murray McDavid?

The Cognac finish (the sister product) gives a nutty, fruity lightness. The PX finish here is more intense with dark dried fruit, raisins and mocha.

What does Caol Ila 2014 PX finish taste like?

Dried fruit, raisins, mocha and dark plums meeting Caol Ila's maritime smoke. Delicate and balanced.

What is Ximenez-Spinola?

One of the most acclaimed Pedro Ximenez houses in Jerez, Spain. They produce intense dessert wines from the PX grape – the casks Murray McDavid used for this finish.

Should I add water?

A single drop of water can open the aromas and soften the alcohol. Always try the whisky neat first and adjust from there.

What is Caol Ila?

Caol Ila is owned by Diageo and contributes malt primarily to Johnnie Walker blends. The distillery is Islay's largest, yet far less well-known than its neighbours.

Which glass is recommended?

A tulip-shaped glass like a Glencairn is ideal – it concentrates the aromas and brings out the balance. See our range of whisky glasses.