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On a beautiful late September evening, 9 WeeDrammers gathered on the deck at Bo’s to sample #’s 130 and 131 on our ongoing quest to conquer the world of Scotland’s single malt. As host, Bo’s task was to discover two more drams, neither of which have been sampled to date. With the help of folks at Cascadia Liquour, two excellent bottles were selected.
First up was Johnnie Walker “Green”, a blended malt whisky comprised of four (Talisker, Linkwood, Cragganmore and Caol Ila) single malts, each of them at least 15 years old. Normally, blended whisky wouldn’t meet the criteria of the WeeDrammers as the group seeks out only single malts. However, Bo was right to point out that a precedent had been set by others who have also, on occasion served up a blended dram. No one argued, especially after sampling.
Johnny Walker Green received 95 points at the International Wine and Spirit Competition 2022. Described as “full and fruity” this dram “combines subtle hints of peat with generous pear fruit and herbal notes for complexity. Sweet smoke and vanilla round out a full palate that finishes with “tangy flavours”.
At $95.49 and coming in with an ABV of 43%, Bo’s choice was very well received!
Bo’s second choice, Caol Ila 12 Yr. Old originates in the Sound of Islay near PortAskaig. Since 1846 malt whisky has been produced on this site. From 1927 onward, Caol Ila has been run by Diageo who, in 1972 built a significantly larger distillery than the original and transformed Caol Ila in the Islay’s largest producer.
Caol Ila is a lighter Islay whiskies, pale in colour with peaty, floral and peppery notes. As well as being sold as a single malt, it is used heavily (95% of production) in blends, including Johnny Walker.
The 12 year old is considered by ‘experts’ to be the perfect entry point into the world of peaty malt whiskies. Fresh, sweetly fruity and smooth-bodied, the Caol Ila 12 year old has “a fresh and appetizing nose, with little or not race of smoke. A a little water will intensify the nose. On the palate. a sweet start transitions to a fragrant smokiness and a lengthy finish. A dash of water will bring out even sweeter notes. The finish is a lingering sweet smokiness.
At $93.49, At $95.49 and also coming in with an ABV of 43%, we agreed that this too was a fine choice.
An array of appetizers were presented as compliment to the drams. Beautifully prepared port tenderloin slices, gravlax with mustard sauce, two delightful cheeses, a variety of nuts, fruit and crackers all were on offer. And, a VERY spicy plate of smoked mussels were available for those brave enough to sample. Critical to the food pairings, plenty of dark rich chocolate was on offer. Interestingly, the chocolate paired exceptionally well with the Caol Ila.
Another great evening with two more excellent examples of Scotland’s finest. Thanks Bo.
