Caol Ila 11 Year Old Special Release 2024

Caol Ila 11 Year Old Special Release 2024 is an exceptional unpeated edition from the Diageo Special Releases 2024 “Spirited Xchange 2.0” series.

The Caol Ila distillery on the Isle of Islay took a bold step – producing whisky with short fermentation and “cloudy wort,” which was then distilled in partially filled blends, maximizing contact with copper.

For 11 years, it matured in a combination of ex-wine casks from American and European oak. These casks allowed for a balance of fruity and spicy notes without the typical Islay peat.

The whisky offers a creamy-nougat experience on the palate. Initially, roasted nuts dominate – hazelnuts, roasted almonds, and caramel. After a moment, a hint of spice joins in – black and white pepper, delicate vanilla. A drop of water enhances the notes of green apple and partially citrus fruitiness, while subtle traces of wine bring depth and a long finish.

This edition is part of a series that continued in 2024 with the theme “Spirited Xchange Second Edition” – focused on creative combinations of casks and styles. Caol Ila returned to its unpeated form for the first time since 2018 to showcase a “lighter,” yet equally distinctive character of this distillery, proving once again that even without smoke, Islay can be surprisingly multi-layered.

Bottles are filled at 57.3% ABV with a volume of 0.7 l. Delivered in a beautiful and stylish gift tube.