Caol Ila 2014 6 YO Benchmark (Murray McDavid)

Caol Ila 2014 6 YO Benchmark, 50 %

This is an independent bottling from Murray McDavid. Distilled 2014, matured for about five years in bourbon hogsheads, and then finished for 14 months in 1st fill ex-Cognac casks (cask# 1925785/193/194). Limited to 1714 bottles.

The Caol Ila 2014 6 YO Benchmark goes on sale in Norway tomorrow at NOK 1120 (13560101).

Nose: Oaky wood smoke with a medicinal touch. With time also whiffs of salty sea breeze and barbecued meat on the beach.

Taste: Full bodied. Sweet, deep and gracious. I image the cognac casks have contributed to the deeper and richer sweetness here. Salty and oaky smokiness.

Finish: Medium long finish. Much the same. Maybe a little spicier and a little sweeter.

Comment: Youthful Islay whisky with a French connection.

Score 86/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas