If you’re looking for the definitive "maritime" malt, this is it. Caol Ila 12 is often the unsung hero of the Islay world; while its neighbours are busy shouting about how smoky they are, Caol Ila quietly gets on with being one of the most balanced and sophisticated drams on the island. This is a whisky that tastes like a brisk walk along a pebble beach. The smoke is there, certainly, but it’s a gentle, fragrant bonfire smoke rather than a heavy, medicinal punch. It’s beautifully lifted by a bright hit of citrus - think fresh lemon peel - and a distinct oiliness that coats the tongue. Because the distillery overlooks the fast-moving waters of the Islay Strait, there is a constant, underlying saltiness that keeps everything feeling crisp and clean. It’s incredibly versatile. It’s light enough to be an aperitif, yet complex enough to hold its own at the end of a long evening. If you want a peated whisky that feels like a breath of fresh Atlantic air, this is the one you pull from the shelf. [#intro]Fresh, smoky & salty. The perfect introduction to Islay for those who value coastal elegance...[/intro]