CAOL ILA - 17 years old - Vintage 2002 French Connections - Gordon & MacPhail - 54.6%<\/strong><\/span><\/p>
Gordon & MacPhail<\/strong> is a renowned independent bottler<\/strong> of prestigious Scottish whisky and also owner of the Benromach distillery. This house is globally recognized for its very rich and diverse range of bottlings, coming from some of Scotland's most iconic and highly regarded distilleries. Founded in 1895 as a grocer and wine and spirits merchant in Elgin<\/strong>, in the picturesque North-East of Scotland, it has successfully combined tradition and innovation. In 1915, former apprentice and master distiller John Urquhart<\/strong> took over the company, marking the beginning of a family adventure that continues today, preserving unique know-how and a passion for the finest whiskies.<\/p>
The Caol Ila<\/strong> distillery is strategically located on the mythical island of Islay<\/strong>, in the heart of Scotland<\/strong>, and offers the largest volume of Single Malt production on the island. Founded in 1846 near Port Askaig, it is now a key part of the prestigious Diageo<\/strong> portfolio. A large part of its production contributes to the richness of famous blends such as Johnnie Walker. To meet growing demand, the old distillery was demolished in 1974 to make way for a modern and larger facility. Since 2010, production has seen spectacular growth, nearly doubling from 3.5 million to 6.5 million liters per year, thus strengthening its essential role in the global whisky market.<\/p>
Caol Ila Single Malts were once only accessible through independent bottlers until 2002, the year the distillery officially launched its Caol Ila 12 years old. The barley used is malted at Port Ellen, ensuring an exceptional product. The large-sized stills, unique to Caol Ila, are only half-filled to maximize contact between the alcohol vapor and the copper. This technical peculiarity gives Caol Ila expressions a noticeably less peaty<\/strong> profile than other Islay Malts, with a subtle and elegant smoky character<\/strong>. Notably, some non-peated versions have also appeared, offering connoisseurs an even wider aromatic palette.<\/p>
This exceptional vintage was carefully selected by La Maison du Whisky<\/strong> in collaboration with the excellent independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail<\/strong>. A gem for lovers of authenticity and finesse.<\/p>
Slightly peated (35 ppm)<\/em><\/p>