Williamson 2005/2021 Coopers Choice 16 years Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 51%

Islay is known for its smoke, but "Williamson" is the name used when the distillery behind it prefers to stay hidden. This 16 year old from The Coopers Choice is a rare glimpse into the island's undisclosed side.

The expert's description

Williamson 2005/2021 Coopers Choice 16 år Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 51% is a Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, matured in Bourbon cask, cask no. #800100 and bottled at 51%.

The whisky was distilled in March 2005 and bottled in 2021 by the independent merchant The Coopers Choice, from a single bourbon cask, no. #800100, with an outturn of just 204 bottles. As a Secret Islay Blended Malt, the original distillery is not disclosed, but the style clearly carries Islay's characteristic signature.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Smoky seaweed and a hint of sea salt.

Palate

Full-bodied with citrus and a light medicinal tone.

Finish

Long and smoky with lingering maritime depth.

Specifications

Name: Williamson 2005/2021 Coopers Choice 16 år Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 51%
Distillery: Williamson
Bottler: The Coopers Choice
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 16 years
ABV: 51%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Bourbon cask, cask no. #800100
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distilled: 03.2005
Bottled: 2021
Number of bottles: 204
Edition: Limited Edition, Single Cask Release

Flavour Profile

Smoky · Maritime · Full-bodied

Did you know?

The name Williamson is used by several independent bottlers as a shared label for releases from undisclosed Islay distilleries, making it one of the most recognisable "secret" names in the whisky world.

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Frequently asked questions about Williamson 2005/2021 Coopers Choice 16 år Secret Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 51%

Why is the whisky called Williamson?

It is the name The Coopers Choice uses when the original Islay distillery does not want its name disclosed on independent bottlings.

How many bottles exist?

204 bottles were filled from a single bourbon cask, no. #800100, distilled in 2005 and bottled in 2021.

Is Williamson 2005/2021 worth it?

Yes, the 16 year maturation, very limited outturn and clear Islay character make it a rare opportunity for enthusiasts.

What does it taste like?

The nose offers smoky seaweed and sea salt, the palate is full-bodied with citrus, and the finish is long and smoky with maritime depth.

How should this whisky be served?

It is best enjoyed in a tulip glass at room temperature, possibly with a small splash of water.

What is a Secret Islay Blended Malt?

It is a blended malt composed of single malts from Islay distilleries whose names are not disclosed on the label.