WHISKY REVIEWS, NEWS, HISTORY & FOLKLORE
Dràm Mòr
Over the last few days on A Scot on Scotch, I’ve been sampling some interesting single cask Scotch whiskies from independent bottler, Dràm Mòr. Thus far, I’ve reviewed drams from Aberfeldy, Tomintoul, Tamdhu, and Benrinnes. Now, it’s time to look towards the distinctly smoky shores of Islay.
*Full disclosure: the whisky featured in this review was sent to me free of charge. As always, I will strive to give an honest opinion on the quality of the whisky and the value for money it represents.
Dràm Mòr Caol Ila Review
Caol Ila is the largest distillery in Islay but despite the quantity of spirit produced at the Diageo-owned plant, only a limited range of official bottlings are available. For many, myself included, the best way to sample Caol Ila is through independent bottlings like this Dràm Mòr expression.
The whisky is 9 years old and was finished in a French oak cask that previously held oloroso sherry. It’s bottled at 55.2%.
Tasting notes: The nose brings a pleasing combination of coastal peat, subtle sherry and woody spice. The peat has a wee floral tinge to it and the overall effect is perhaps not as dominantly smoky as you might expect. There’s furniture polish, raisins and sultanas, old books and leather armchairs. There’s also a fresher side, with some lemon air freshener and sea spray. Taste-wise, there’s a nice combination of oloroso, with its dried fruits and walnuts, mingling with a malty, salty, Islay profile. The smoke only comes to the fore in the finish and feels like a dampened campfire – dying and ashy.
Thoughts: The balance between the coastal, peaty flavours and the influence of the French oak and oloroso is excellent. The French oak, in particular, feels like an inspired choice and really compliments the Islay spirit. It’s not the peatiest Caol Ila I’ve ever come across and maybe I’d have liked to see more smoke come through but that’s the nitpicking of a certified peat addict. For everyone else, it’s the balance between each powerful aspect of this dram that should prove to be its greatest appeal.
Price: £80. Standard price for a single cask Scotch of this age but probably worth it for a bold and unusual Caol Ila.
For more about Dràm Mòr visit here
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