Private Collection Caol Ila 1990 Port Wood Finish

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 35 by Michael Jackson and Dave Broom.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Dry, fruity, salty. Palate Instant salt and pepper, against firm, hard toffee, malt background. Finish The Port arrives late. Fruity and winey. It struggles with the junipery, orris-like, characteristics of Caol Ila. Comment No contest, the Inner Hebrides quickly overwhelms the Duoro.

Dave Broom Nose Charred, smoky notes: smoked meat, hot dry bracken, redcurrant and haddock. Sweet lift. Palate Good attack. The sweet fruit sits on the tongue, the smoke hanging above. A hint of berry fruits before the smoky bacon returns. Finish Long. Smokehouse. Subtle sweetness. Comment This works. The Port gives a new spin to the distillery character without swamping it.