Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566 61.1% 1974

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Serge Valentin (90)

BOW (91)

This is an old vintage bottle and the closure may have deteriorated. When opening care should be taken. The item is sold as described.
We have added parafilm to keep this bottle in top notch condition.

Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566: A Time Capsule of Islay's Maritime Elegance

In the vast realm of Scotch whisky, certain bottles emerge as time capsules, preserving the essence of a particular moment in a distillery's history. The Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566 is one such extraordinary expression—a 19-year-old Islay single malt that encapsulates the maritime elegance and peaty allure for which Caol Ila is revered. Distilled on December 24, 1974, and bottled in June 1994 by the esteemed Scottish independent bottler Signatory Vintage, this limited edition release of 380 bottles is a testament to the artistry of Islay's whisky craftsmanship.

A Glimpse into the Past:

The year 1974 marked a significant chapter in Caol Ila's legacy, and this particular expression allows whisky enthusiasts to step back in time to savor the flavors and aromas of that era. Distilled during the festive season, the spirit within Cask 12566 spent 19 years maturing in oak, absorbing the character of its Islay surroundings and the maritime influence of the Atlantic.

Tasting Notes:

Pouring a dram of the Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566 reveals a deep, golden elixir that beckons with the promise of a sensory journey. The nose is an intricate dance of peat smoke and brine, with hints of iodine and seaweed. Beneath the surface, a symphony of citrus and tropical fruits adds a layer of complexity, inviting anticipation for the tasting experience.

On the palate, the whisky unfolds with a robust and full-bodied character. The peat smoke takes center stage, delivering a bold yet refined smokiness that is quintessentially Caol Ila. Waves of maritime influence surge forth, with notes of sea salt, brackish water, and a touch of coastal vegetation. The oak, after 19 years of maturation, imparts a rich depth, revealing layers of vanilla, toffee, and a subtle warmth.

The finish is a lingering embrace of Islay's maritime soul, with the peaty embers gradually fading into a gentle, saline kiss. The high alcohol content of 61.1% ABV enhances the longevity of the finish, leaving an enduring memory on the palate.

Limited Edition Rarity:

Bottled at cask strength, the Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566 is a rare gem, with only 380 bottles available to fortunate enthusiasts and collectors. The Dumpy Cask presentation adds a touch of nostalgia, harkening back to the traditional style of whisky bottling that was prevalent during the era in which this expression was distilled.

Conclusion:

The Caol Ila 1974 Signatory Vintage Collection Dumpy Cask 12566 is not just a whisky; it's a journey through time, a sip of Islay's maritime heritage, and a celebration of the craftsmanship that defines Caol Ila. As you savor each drop of this limited edition release, you're transported to the windswept shores of Islay, where the sea, the peat, and the oak converge in a harmonious symphony. With every sip, you're not just tasting whisky; you're experiencing a piece of Islay's history—a rare and exquisite expression that deserves its place among the most distinguished single malts.