New Release: Caol Ila 2004-2015 10yo GM RESERVE for Campbelltown Loch & Bar Caol Ila #306487 57.9%

A well-crafted short-aged Caol Ila, fully realized. Caol Ila CAOL ILA 2004-2015 10yo GM RESERVE for CAMPBELTOUN LOCH & BAR CAOL ILA #306487 57.9% One of 217 bottles, first-fill bourbon barrel The aroma features orange and vanilla, coconut, a pleasant malty sweetness, seafood stock and sea breeze, strong peat, pronounced oak, a touch of cream, and richness. On the palate, it is powerful and concentrated with orange marmalade, a chewy malty umami, honey-like sweetness, smoky peat, and a long finish. [Good/Very Good] This 10-year-old Caol Ila, bottled as GM Reserve for Campbelltown Loch (Ginza) and Bar Caol Ila (Shibuya), showcases the best of bourbon cask characteristics like orange, vanilla, coconut, and cream typical of first-fill barrels. Yet unlike many first-fill barrels, it lacks the green wood-like nuances often associated with them, instead contributing depth through its oaky woody character. Of course, as a short-aged whisky, it retains the strong peat and briny notes characteristic of Caol Ila cask strength, delivering a powerful profile. Its rich flavor and the impression of malty umami and honey-like sweetness were particularly striking. At its peak maturity, this is an excellent example of how a well-chosen first-fill barrel doesn't necessarily require long aging to be exceptional. A truly superb choice.