Whisky Reviews/Whisky Page

Scott’s Selection Caol Ila 1981 2012 60,3%

Illustrative imageCaol Ila · Explore distillery
90

Amber Room ReviewIndependent tasting notes

Reviewed 08 August 2026 ·View daily archive

Whisky facts

Region
Islay
Independent Bottler
Scott's Selection
ABV
60.3%
Vintage
1981
Bottled
2012

A good, above average Caol Ila that’s definitely comparable to some Port Ellens and packs a heavy punch while being considerably cheaper than Port Ellens of similar vintage + age, another example of how 1970s and early 1980s Caol Ila can be really good (while also affordable)

In the glass

Tasting Notes

1 Amber Room Review

Amber Room Review

Scott’s Selection Caol Ila 1981 2012 60,3%

08 August 2026
90

A good, above average Caol Ila that’s definitely comparable to some Port Ellens and packs a heavy punch while being considerably cheaper than Port Ellens of similar vintage + age, another example of how 1970s and early 1980s Caol Ila can be really good (while also affordable)

Nose

A very intense smoky meaty nose, gets easier and gentler and sweeter over time, definitely a beautiful nose

Body

Slightly spicy and hot initially, but gets softer and sweeter over time (perhaps a bit too sweet for some people); definitely easier to drink than the 60,3% would suggest, a bit oily, slightly zesty towards the end

Finish

Long smoky finish, a bit of coal and tar

Other perspectives

External Review Links

Back to Whisky ReviewsExplore all whiskies