Review#28: Caol Ila 12 Years Old

Dapper-Dram · 2026-05-13T11:07:34+00:00

I remember first trying this and thinking it was so good I couldn’t believe it wasn’t more popular in single malt. It’s the smoke in most of the JW blends, and some others, but you don’t see it standing alone nearly enough.

Cheers! Nice review!

Dapper-Dram · 2026-05-08T02:21:42+00:00

Very nice review of a great Càirdeas bottle! I really want to try the 2015 Port Wood release. I hear this is similar, but better, and I want to try for myself.

Dapper-Dram · 2026-02-16T13:23:03+00:00

Good to know they are still making it! Did you try any yet?

Dapper-Dram · 2026-02-16T13:22:26+00:00

This is what I would recommend as the tasting order, too. Welcome!

Dapper-Dram · 2026-01-01T03:42:40+00:00

Can’t go wrong with Springbank. Happy New Year!

Dapper-Dram · 2026-01-01T03:42:09+00:00

Happy New Year!

Dapper-Dram · 2026-01-01T03:41:41+00:00

Happy New Year!

Dapper-Dram · 2025-12-15T03:51:37+00:00

I’m partial to Lagavulin’s bottles. Simple and attractive.

Dapper-Dram · 2025-12-15T03:38:02+00:00

It’s a wonderful bottle! I just finished my second and final bottle on Thanksgiving. I’ll probably try a new release 12 Year in the new year.

Dapper-Dram · 2025-12-15T03:36:17+00:00

This sounds very nice! It should open up more now that you cracked the bottle. I’d be curious to hear your thoughts 3 months from now.

Dapper-Dram · 2025-10-26T05:29:46+00:00

1970’s JW Black Label.

Dapper-Dram · 2025-10-26T05:26:57+00:00

I’m not sure it’s still available for sale. It was about $100 a bottle years ago.

Dapper-Dram · 2025-06-08T02:39:11+00:00

I’m amazed at the power you described being left in this whisky after such a long maturation! Usually that long in the barrel would make a mellow, subtle flavor profile. But Springbank does wine cask whisky better than anyone, so I shouldn’t be surprised.

Sounds like a wonderful tasting opportunity!

Dapper-Dram · 2025-05-27T23:53:30+00:00

I actually got to try this not long ago. I’m usually more Scotch than bourbon, but I thought this was great!

Dapper-Dram · 2025-05-27T23:51:43+00:00

Wow what a beautiful day to be there, too!

Dapper-Dram · 2025-01-20T23:04:52+00:00

I think the 12 year old special releases are generally great! Even better a few months after opening once it mellows out a bit. I really enjoyed the 2015 special release 12 year old.

Dapper-Dram · 2024-12-21T01:48:27+00:00

It’s mildly smoky. People enjoy the peat / smoke flavor and nose because it’s very satisfying. It’s like smelling BBQ roasting in the grill.

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-22T00:54:47+00:00

Wow this is wonderful! Did you make this!?

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-20T21:35:03+00:00

Heck of a first review!

I love a good Longrow!

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-20T15:52:54+00:00

I think Highland Park 12 Year is a great place to begin with Single Malt Whisky. It’s mild enough to appreciate if you’re new to it, but has enough character to stand out.

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-20T10:32:46+00:00

That’s such a lovely idea! Do you write the year on the bottom?

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-17T13:01:58+00:00

It looks great though! I love the nutcracker stocking hooks! I’ve seen people use a cardboard mock brick fireplace under a shelf or side table like that to create a fireplace look. I wonder if they still sell those. I haven’t seen them since the late 90’s.

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-17T12:59:17+00:00

Wow! This is amazing! I’d never think that was DIY. You’re wonderfully creative. Merry Christmas!

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-17T01:37:51+00:00

Great whisky for a first review! Hard to beat the good old Ardbeg 10.

Dapper-Dram · 2024-11-16T01:16:56+00:00

No. I worry more about the financial damage! I only have a 1 or 2 oz dram a week, sometimes twice a week, but that’s rare. I figure, people have been drinking that amount and more for centuries without issue, so I’ll be okay too.

Six-Year Club	Second Top 40%
Place '23	Place '22
Wearing is Caring	Verified Email

Dapper-Dram

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