The latest batch of Elements of Islay bottlings includes this Caol Ila Cl12 . It has been matured for 7 years in a pair of refill sherry butts before being bottled at cask strength.

Caol Ila Cl12 7 yo 2011 (57,5%, Elements of Islay 2019, two refill sherry butts, 50cl, 1901 btl.)

Nose: a fairly vegetal start. Buttery apples and pears, linseed oil, plenty of barley notes. A little porridge and mashed vegetables. Mild smoke and hints of iodine. Mouth: sweet peat with big smoky and a generous dose of salty notes. Hints of mezcal. In a second...