Caol Ila 2015/2023 Wilson & Morgan 8 years old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 57.1%

When new, unused oak meets Caol Ila's already robust smoke profile, something unexpected happens: instead of cancelling each other out, they pull in the same direction. Wilson & Morgan used Virgin Oak casks as a finish on this 8-year expression, and the result is a Caol Ila with a forceful character that surprises.

Expert's description

Caol Ila 2015/2023 Wilson & Morgan 8 Years is an Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in refill hogsheads with a finish in first-fill Virgin Oak casks, bottled at 57.1%.

Wilson & Morgan is an Italian, family-owned bottler founded in Barolo country in 1992 with a keen eye for Scottish casks. This is the 2nd batch of the series from Caol Ila, with cask numbers #314293-97 and #314299-301. 2,383 bottles were produced.

The Virgin Oak cask – never previously used – is intense: it contributes powerful notes of vanilla and coconut along with spice, but none of the buttery sweetness that a sherry cask would give. Combined with Caol Ila's maritime smoke, an aromatic backbone emerges that is clear and vivid.

Tasting notes

Nose

Warm vanilla and coconut from the Virgin Oak open, followed by Caol Ila's peat smoke and fresh citrus. A hint of cinnamon and cloves in the background.

Palate

Robust and aromatic. Smoke and oak spice sit close together, with an underlying freshness of green apple and citrus peel. No buttery sweetness – direct, clean character.

Finish

Medium-long. Spice and smoke linger with a dry, lightly bitter ending from the fresh oak.

Specifications

Name: Caol Ila 2015/2023 Wilson & Morgan 8 Years
Distillery: Caol Ila Distillery
Bottler: Wilson & Morgan
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 8 years
ABV: 57.1%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Refill hogsheads with Virgin Oak finish
Distilled: 2015
Bottled: 2023
Number of bottles: 2,383
Edition: 2nd batch
EAN no.: 8057760350366

Flavour profile

Peated · Spiced · Fresh · Vanilla · Robust

Did you know?

Wilson & Morgan is based in Piedmont, northern Italy – and that is no coincidence: Italy's whisky enthusiasm is world-class. Italy ranks among the countries with the most whisky purchasers per capita globally.

See our full range of Caol Ila Whisky

Listen to our podcast:

Frequently asked questions about Caol Ila 2015/2023 Wilson & Morgan 8 Years

Is the Caol Ila Wilson & Morgan 8 Years worth it?

Yes – 8 years and 57.1% cask strength with an unusual Virgin Oak finish from a respected Italian bottler delivers solid complexity for the age. Not a typical Caol Ila.

What is a Virgin Oak finish?

Virgin Oak casks have never previously held spirits. They are highly active and contribute powerful vanilla, coconut and spice, but not the winey sweetness of sherry or wine casks.

What is Wilson & Morgan?

A family-owned Italian bottler founded in 1992 in the Barolo region. They select Scottish single casks and are known for unusual cask combinations.

Is this a powerful dram?

Yes, bottled at 57.1% it has a noticeable kick. Start neat and add a drop of water gradually.

What does a Virgin Oak finish taste like?

Powerful vanilla, coconut, light cinnamon and a dry bitterness from fresh oak – no fruit or dried-fruit sweetness.

What is Caol Ila distillery?

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.

How should I store the bottle?

Store the bottle upright in a dark, cool place. Once opened, it keeps well for 1-3 years with a tight stopper.