Wilson & Morgan Caol Ila 2015 Virgin Oak Finish is a whisky that immediately captures attention with its intense and decisive personality. Distilled in the heart of Islay in 2015 and bottled with the explosive force of 100 UK Proof (57.1% ABV), this single malt seeks no compromise: every sip tells the story of a windswept, salty, and mysterious island, where peat meets the sea and the wind sculpts the whisky's character.
What sets this edition apart is its finish in virgin oak barrels, a new type of wood never used before for aging. This step doesn't soften the peat, but rather gives it a more defined structure, a muscular and tannic body that amplifies the iodine and smoky notes typical of Caol Ila. The aroma is immediate and penetrating: the nose is enveloped in a cloud of peat smoke, medicinal accents, and hints of tar, intertwined with hints of raw wood and damp forest, as if strolling along the Islay coast after a storm.
On the palate, the whisky reveals itself as powerful and vigorous. Peaty and smoky notes blend with a subtle peppery warmth and a hint of licorice, creating a balance between aggressiveness and complexity. Virgin oak lends a tannic texture that carries the sip through to a long, lingering finish, where peat smoke and the scent of the sea mingle with a light astringency that leaves the mouth surprisingly clean, ready for another sip.
This Caol Ila isn't for those seeking smoothness or sweetness: it's a whisky that tells its story unfiltered, transporting those who taste it straight to the windswept shores of Islay. The limited bottling and Wilson & Morgan's meticulous craftsmanship make each bottle a treasure trove for lovers of intense, bold single malts. The elegant presentation case adds a touch of prestige, making it an ideal gift for those who appreciate bold, complex drams.