House of McCallum Caol Ila 10yo Single Cask 2015 Rum Cask

The House of McCallum Caol Ila 10 Year Old Single Cask is an elegant Islay single malt that demonstrates how thoughtful cask selection can bring new dimensions to one of Scotland's most recognisable peated distilleries. Bottled from single cask #0553, this limited release has been matured for 10 years before being bottled at a robust 48.5% ABV, with just 311 bottles produced.

Distilled on the rugged shores of Islay, Caol Ila is celebrated for its refined style of peat smoke. Produced in tall stills overlooking the Sound of Islay towards Jura, the distillery creates a spirit renowned for its clean, oily texture, bright citrus notes, and elegant maritime character. For this release, maturation in a Rum cask adds an intriguing layer of tropical sweetness, complementing rather than overpowering the distillery's distinctive profile.

The nose opens with gentle medicinal smoke, fresh citrus, and subtle vanilla, while hints of brown sugar and warming spice begin to emerge. On the palate, the whisky is rich and oily, revealing classic coastal peat alongside cracked black pepper, bright lemon, and sea salt. The Rum cask contributes soft tropical fruit sweetness and delicate clove, adding complexity while allowing Caol Ila's signature character to remain firmly at the forefront.

The finish is long, balanced, and effortlessly elegant, with lingering notes of soft ash, lemon zest, sea salt, and gentle smoke. A beautifully composed Islay single malt, this limited single cask release showcases the harmony between coastal peat and carefully judged cask influence.