Caol Ila Elements of Islay CI13 9 Year Old, Oak Hogshead & Sherry Butt Cask, Batch No. 05-B, Elixir Distillers, 54.6%

There’s a lively push and pull here: smoked paprika, pepper and lime give way to chocolate, praline and berry sweetness, while the smoke and salty tang keep things savoury. The finish sounds warm and persistent, so this seems more suited to someone who enjoys bold spice than a soft, easygoing malt. The SGD 94.02 sale reference gives some price context, but the character—not the number—is the more compelling part.

Reviewed by SilverRover

Nose

Smoked paprika, cracked black pepper and lime juice, Hot chocolate with chilli powder and caramelised hazelnuts, Sea-spray freshness

Palate

Dusty chocolate and freeze-dried raspberries wrapped in wood smoke, Oak char and smooth praline, Limoncello and sweet oakiness

Finish

Spice with a dry, salty tang, Salty smoke and chilli pepper warmth, Lemons and smoldering fire