Founded in 1846 near Port Askaig on Islay by Hector Henderson, Caol Ila means 'Sound of Islay' in Gaelic. The freshwater supply was one of the reasons for its location, and water has been important in many ways ever since - a waterfall provided power for the barley elevators and pressure for the fire hydrants. Today, a new heat exchanger uses the sea to cool the hot process water before returning it to the condensers, where for many years all supplies arrived and drums left by sea, on a small coaster called Pibroch.
Nose: Caol Ila's Port Askaig 100 proof offers intense aromas of smoke, peat and salt, typical of Islay whiskies.
Taste: On the palate, this 8-year-old single malt reveals powerful flavors of peat, dried fruit and marine notes, with a hint of black pepper.
Finish: The finish of this 57% alcohol whisky is long and warm, leaving lingering notes of peat and salt on the palate, for an intense and complex taste experience.
Nose: Cardhu 15 Year Old reveals notes of ripe fruit, honey and vanilla, with a hint of spice. Mouth: On the palate, this single malt reveals rich flavors of dried fruit, toffee and oak, with a velvety texture. Finish: The finish is long and warm, giving way to notes of dark chocolate and roasted hazelnuts.
Nose: A combination of malty notes, barley husks and smoked peanut skins with burnt toast, smoked raspberries and blackcurrant. There’s a hint of antiseptic as well, accompanied by burlap and just a tinge of cordite.
Taste: Charred meat, a hint of spent matches and cherry liqueur, as well as cured meats and black pepper. Touches of redcurrants and fresh rubber, as well as streaky bacon, wood smoke and smoke paprika powder.
Finish: Medium to long. More pepper, decent salinity and definitely more rubber
Nose: Chollet Chasselas AOC reveals subtle aromas of red fruits and sweet spices. Mouth: On the palate, this red wine offers a silky texture and notes of ripe fruit, supported by elegant tannins. Finish: The finish is long and persistent, leaving a delicate sensation of freshness on the palate.