CAOL ILA - 2007 - The Culprit Chess Investigation Series - Signatory Vintage - 46%
Signatory Vintage, founded in 1988 by visionary experts Andrew and Brian Symington, is today recognized as one of the world's leading independent whisky bottlers. Their passion for rigorous selection and exceptional quality grants them a prime position among rare whisky enthusiasts.
The iconic Caol Ila distillery is located on the wild and picturesque island of Islay, in Scotland. As the largest Single Malt distillery on the island in terms of capacity, it embodies excellence and tradition since its founding in 1846, near Port Askaig. Now owned by the giant Diageo, Caol Ila supplies a large share of the prestigious blends market, notably Johnnie Walker. Facing growing demand, its modernization in 1974 allowed the construction of a larger site. Since 2010, its production has nearly doubled, reaching 6.5 million liters per year, demonstrating its exceptional dynamism in the Scottish whisky industry.
Historically, Caol Ila Single Malts were only available through independent bottlers until 2002, a landmark year when the famous 12-year-old Caol Ila was officially released. The malted barley comes from the renowned Port Ellen maltings, and the stills, larger than those of other Islay distilleries, are filled halfway, which increases the contact between alcohol and copper. This unique technique gives Caol Ila whiskies a noticeably less peaty profile than other Islay Single Malts, offering a subtle and refined smoky aroma. Additionally, some occasional non-peated expressions enrich this prestigious range.
The Culprit is the 7th edition of the renowned Chess Investigation series. This exceptional whisky, distilled in 2007, matured for 4 years in first-fill sherry casks, allowing a fine balance of richness and elegance. Only 891 exclusive bottles were produced, making this expression a sought-after treasure for collectors and connoisseurs.
Tasting profile: Elegantly peated with complex nuances.
Purchase limited to 1 bottle per customer – exclusive to Clos des Spiritueux
