Caol Ila 12 Year Old Feis Ile 2021

NOSE Complex, unfurling in stages after light early prickle. A lightly green, faintly herbal top note. Soon, lush with scented fruit; as with sweet eating grapes, or a ripe fresh peach. Part of an alfresco picnic in a summer garden. Beneath this, a spicy woody note and faint notes of char from an extinguished bonfire. Water brings up a striking earthy yet floral note; there are newly planted geraniums in the garden. Later, more pungent, with typical hints of freshness and cleanliness. PALATE At natural strength, lively yet creamy-smooth in texture, intensely sweet to begin and balancing this with notes of pepper spice, a hint of salt and more rich fruit, to develop a racy and embracing warmth. Easy to enjoy straight. A dash of water softens the spice but keeps the smooth texture, rich sweetness and vibrant intensity. FINISH Quite long, still intensely tangy and drying, with that spicy warmth growing gently to leave a lovely, finally smoky aftertaste. Similar with water.