CAOL ILA 1998 53,4% MASAM SILVANO'S COLLECTION | WILD & PRIMITIVE - SINGLE CASK #10740

The Caol Ila 1998 53.4% Masam Silvano's Collection | Wild & Primitive - Single Cask #10740 is an exquisite expression from one of Islay's most revered distilleries. This exclusive bottling is a testament to the artful curation by Samaroli, a bottler renowned for their discerning selection of unique whisky expressions from Scotland.

This particular release from Caol Ila, a distillery established in 1846 and situated on the northeastern shores of Islay, is infamous for generating some of the smokiest whiskies in Scotland. However, it’s not just smoke that defines Caol Ila’s whiskies; nuances of maritime elements, floral notes, and fruit are integral to their complexity. With this 1998 vintage, Caol Ila demonstrates their adept skill in crafting a whisky that beautifully balances the characteristically robust peaty flavors with a more nuanced, sophisticated profile.

The vintage from 1998 has been meticulously matured in Single Cask #10740 until its bottling by Samaroli. At a strength of 53.4%, this whisky promises a full-bodied, intense experience. The higher alcohol content enhances the deep, complex flavors without overwhelming the delicate subtleties that make this vintage special.

Only 320 bottles of this rare expression have been released, making it a sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Each bottle encapsulates not just the liquor but also the year of traditions and the craftsmanship honed at the distillery over decades.

The bottler, Samaroli, is an Italian company known globally for its exquisite taste and a nose for exceptionally aged spirits. Founded by Silvano Samaroli in 1968, it has built a reputation for bottling some of the most intriguing and well-preserved whiskies from around Scotland. Samaroli’s selections are famous for their artistic labels and thoughtful curation, always adding narrative depth and a layer of enjoyment to the connoisseur’s experience.

In this special series labeled "Wild & Primitive," Samaroli captures the essence of the untouched and raw aspects of Islay, wherein lies the soul of this 1998 Caol Ila. The name itself speaks to the untamed nature that Samaroli tends to embrace in its selections, focusing on the innate wildness and fundamental attributes of the spirit it bottles.

Each sip transports the drinker to Islay’s rugged landscapes, exposed to the wild Atlantic weather, echoing the intensity and purity of the whisky. The dram exudes notes of peat smoke, intermingling with hints of seaweed, brine, and occasional bursts of citrus and florals, enveloped in the legacy and lore of its storied provenance.

As a unique single cask expression, the individual characteristics of the cask and the influence of Islay's distinctive climatic conditions play a significant role in shaping its final flavor profile. This is not just a beverage but an experience, a journey back in time to the heart of Islay's whisky tradition, curated by one of the most innovative and renowned bottlers in the industry.

Whether enjoyed as part of a sophisticated tasting session or as a remarkable gift to a whisky aficionado, the Caol Ila 1998 Masam Silvano's Collection is an emblem of both distillery's heritage and the bottler's visionary approach to whisky curation. It stands not only as a beverage but as a piece of art, merging history, culture, and unparalleled craftsmanship.