This 8-year-old Caol Ila, bottled by North Star Spirits, demonstrates how exciting the combination of Islay smoke and sherry influence can be. With an outturn of only 225 bottles and a robust alcohol percentage of 56.7%, this is an expressive and characterful whisky that immediately captivates.
North Star is known for its uncompromising selection of casks, and that is clearly evident here. In this bottling, Caol Ila's typically maritime character is joined by rich, dark notes from the cask. The influence of sherry wood brings layers of dried fruit, spiciness, and a warm, slightly earthy depth, without losing the fresh, salty signature of the distillery.
The higher alcohol content provides intensity and structure, yet remains remarkably well-balanced. With a few drops of water, the whisky opens further, bringing out the sweeter and spicier nuances even more beautifully.
A limited bottling that shows Islay from a slightly richer, darker side, without losing its distinctive elegance.
