Octave Caol Ila 2008, 16yo cask 4045036 @ 54.7%

An extraordinary 16-year-old single cask Islay whisky from Caol Ila, showcasing a unique savory-sweet profile in Duncan Taylor's Octave series.

Distilled in 2008 and matured in cask 4045036, this exceptional single malt offers a distinctive flavor journey that sets it apart from its siblings. Bottled at a robust cask strength of 54.7%, this limited release combines classic Islay peat with unexpected savory notes and sherry influence that create a truly memorable dram.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Bold Islay peat smoke leads, followed by liquorice, black pepper, crisp apple juice, and salted nuts.

Palate: Remarkable complexity with smoked bacon crisps, salted caramel, cracked black pepper, rich sherry notes, and lingering peat ash. A savory-sweet masterpiece.

Perfect Serves

Neat: The savory complexity shines at cask strength, though a few drops of water reveal the interplay between smoke, salt, and sweetness.

Smoky Manhattan: The sherry notes and savory character make this exceptional in a Scotch Manhattan. Stir with sweet vermouth and Angostura bitters, garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

Penicillin: The salted caramel and bacon notes add incredible depth to this modern classic. Combine with honey-ginger syrup and fresh lemon juice.

Bobby Burns: The sherry influence pairs beautifully with Benedictine and sweet vermouth in this classic Scotch cocktail.

Details

• Distillery: Caol Ila, Islay
• Distilled: 2008
• Age: 16 years
• Cask: 4045036
• ABV: 54.7% (cask strength)
• Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Region: Islay
• Profile: Peated with sherry influence
• Limited availability - single cask release