Caol Ila 12 - 43%

From the distillery website:

The ultimate Islay malt, Caol Ila is considered by experts to be the perfect entry point into the world of peaty malt whiskies and a reference for connoisseurs of Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky the world over. Fresh, sweetly fruity and smooth-bodied, Caol Ila 12 year old is the colour of pale straw, with a delicate balance of tastes.

Tasting notes: 

Appearance: Pale straw, forms a thin line which breaks and falls as slow, thin legs.

Nose: Lemon citrus, slightly grassy and vegetal. Subtle hints of seaweed and barbecued meat occupy the background.

Palate: Oily mouthfeel, with vanilla, caramel toffee, orchard fruits and citrus as the dominant notes. Gentle peat smoke and the faintest of coastal saltiness add a degree of complexity.

Finish: Sweet at first, fading to soft, ashy peat smoke with just a hint of tar and warm peppery spice.

Summary: A light, fresh Caol Ila which would make a good entry point for those wishing to try Islay peat without jumping in at the deep end. It’s a well balanced whisky, with sweet fruit and citrus notes enhanced by the subtly peated nature of the spirit. This is very much the case of peat playing a supporting role rather than taking centre stage.

Current price is around £40 which appears good value for anyone wanting an easy drinker or that first foray into Islay malts.