Gordon & MacPhail

Caol Ila 13 Years Old Discovery

ABV: 43% 70 cL

This Caol Ila 13 Year Old is part of Gordon & MacPhail’s Discovery Series, a curated collection showcasing classic flavour profiles from some of Scotland’s most respected distilleries. Each expression in the series is crafted to highlight a bold, unmistakable style—smoky, sherried, or bourbon-matured.


This particular bottling represents the smoky side of single malt whisky. Matured for 13 years in bourbon casks, it offers a beautifully layered profile, where peat smoke intertwines with tropical fruits, citrus zest, and subtle hints of vanilla and oak. A vibrant Islay malt that’s both powerful and perfectly balanced, ideal for lovers of refined peat.

Nose

Sweet and savoury: dry-cured meats glazed with luscious apricot jam combines with rich vanilla. Notes. Flashes of softly swirling peat smoke complement the delicious sweetness.

Palate

Bursting with juicy tropical fruit - pineapple, kiwi, and banana - brushed softly with icing sugar. Light touches of malt and vibrant lemon peel balance the sweetness.

Finish

Long and luxurious with hints of sweet marshmallow toasting over gently smouldering bonfire embers.

£49.99

Tax included.

PRODUCT INFO

Region Islay
Distillery Caol Ila
Cask type Bourbon Casks
Bottling company Gordon & MacPhail
Whisky type Single Malt

The name Caol Ila derives from the Gaelic "Caol Ìle", which means "The Sound of Islay". The distillery's journey began in 1846 when it was founded by Hector Henderson. Despite his previous experience at Littlemill, the distillery did not succeed and changed hands in 1854. 9 years later, it was sold again, this time to Bulloch Lade & Co., who expanded production. The distillery faced more changes in ownership and a few closures up to the 1970s when the old buildings were demolished and replaced by larger ones, and additional stills were installed, making it once again the largest distillery on the island. Since 2004, Caol Ila has been a part of Diageo's portfolio, bottling single malts, as well as using the liquid for Johny Walker blends.
It is known for being one of the most delicate whiskies on the island, wich light colour, citrusy flavours and ashy peat.