Here is an unusual bottle of Caol Ila whiskey. This 18-year-old unpeated single malt has been aged in second-fill American barrels, and was marketed in 2017 in small quantities. Bottled at its natural strength, i.e. 59.8%, this edition reveals a fresh and pure Islay whisky, with subtly saline and fruity notes. Caol Ila Moch Moch is Gaelic for dawn, and this release from Caol Ila is an altogether lighter prospect than the distillery's excellent 12 year old standard expression. Nose Lemon sherbet and apple crumble topping with custard. Dry grass and not a hint of smoke. Palate Sweet lemon meringue pie and soft, very soft mouthfeel. The peat hits a third of the way in but it's restrained; soothing wood smoke rather than burning tyres, and it retains a sweetness throughout. Finish Soft drying smoke. Overall A tasty, easy drinking Islay that's pulled back on peat but not on flavour