Caol Ila 12 Year Old (Bottled 2017) ABV: 43% "A 2017 bottling of the quintessential Islay malt, the Caol Ila 12 Year Old is celebrated for its balanced, approachable, and consistently high-quality smoky profile. While many Islay whiskies are defined by heavy peat, Caol Ila offers a more refined, 'coastal' elegance. It is bottled at 43% ABV and remains a benchmark for the distillery's house style. Nose: Fresh and herbal with rubs of peppermint, damp grass, and a gentle waft of peat smoke, accompanied by lemon peels and a hint of smoked ham. Palate: A good, oily body with elegant smoke and tarry notes. It balances initial sweetness with a fragrant smokiness and hints of boiled sweets. Finish: Long and warming with lingering pepper, spice, and a distinctive maritime saltiness." Lagavulin 8 Year Old (Bottled 2017) ABV: 48% "Released in late 2017 as a permanent addition to the core range, the Lagavulin 8 Year Old is a vibrant and uncompromising tribute to the distillery’s heritage. Inspired by Alfred Barnard’s 19th-century visit to the distillery, this expression is bottled at a higher strength of 48% ABV, offering a more raw and spirited experience compared to the iconic 16-year-old. Nose: Immediately light and fresh with clean notes of milk chocolate and lemon, followed by a developing scent of tea-scented smoke and maritime aromas. Palate: Bold and warming with a massive surge of clean, wood-smoke peat. It features sweet notes of toasted nuts and a spicy, peppery intensity. Finish: Long and powerful with an ash-dry finish that leaves a lasting impression of the rugged Islay coastline."