Murray McDavid - Benchmark, Caol Ila 12y, 2012-2024, single malt, wild beer stout cask finish, 52.3%, 1502b, Peated Scotch Whisky

Murray McDavid - Caol Ila 12-Year-Old is an intriguing Islay single malt Scotch whisky with a bold peated profile, distilled in 2012 and bottled in 2024. This whisky was initially matured in traditional oak casks before being finished in Wild Beer Stout casks—a unique and experimental choice that adds rich, malty, and roasted flavors to the smoky backbone of Caol Ila. Bottled at 52.3% ABV, this cask-strength release offers a robust and complex flavor experience. Part of Murray McDavid’s innovative Benchmark Series, this limited-edition bottling of only 1502 bottles is perfect for fans of peated whisky and adventurous cask finishes.

Key Features

1. Peated Islay Single Malt:

   • Produced at the Caol Ila Distillery, renowned for its maritime and smoky whiskies, with a signature balance of peat, sweetness, and coastal character.

2. Wild Beer Stout Cask Finish:

   • Finished in casks from Wild Beer Co., a craft brewery known for its experimental and bold beer styles. The stout cask finish imparts roasted malt, coffee, and chocolate notes, complementing the whisky’s peaty profile.

3. Cask Strength:

   • Bottled at 52.3% ABV, this unfiltered whisky delivers intense, concentrated flavors for a bold and authentic experience.

4. Limited Edition:

   • With only 1502 bottles available, this release is a rare and collectible whisky, appealing to connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Flavour Profile

1. Nose:

   • A captivating aroma of campfire smoke, toasted barley, and dark chocolate, with hints of espresso, sea salt, and a touch of dried orange peel.

2. Palate:

   • Bold and layered, featuring flavors of charcoal smoke, roasted coffee beans, and cocoa powder, balanced by malty sweetness, vanilla, and a subtle note of seaweed brine. The stout cask adds a rich, creamy texture and a distinctive roasted depth.

3. Finish:

   • A long, warming finish with lingering notes of smoked toffee, dark roasted malt, and a whisper of peppery oak, leaving a satisfying balance of smoke and stout richness.

Food Pairing Suggestions

1. Barbecued Meats:

   • Pair with smoked beef brisket or chargrilled ribs to complement the whisky’s smoky and roasted flavors, creating a bold and indulgent combination.

2. Dark Chocolate Desserts:

   • Enjoy with chocolate lava cake or espresso brownies, as the whisky’s stout and cocoa notes enhance the richness of the dessert.

3. Savory Cheeses:

   • Pair with smoked cheddar or aged Gouda, where the whisky’s peaty and malty character balances the cheese’s creamy, tangy flavors.

Who Is It For?

Murray McDavid - Caol Ila 12-Year-Old is ideal for:

• Fans of Peated Whisky: With its smoky Islay profile, this whisky is perfect for those who love bold, maritime-inspired whiskies.
• Adventurous Whisky Drinkers: The Wild Beer stout cask finish offers a unique twist, appealing to those who enjoy exploring unconventional cask maturations.
• Cask-Strength Lovers: Bottled at 52.3% ABV, this whisky delivers powerful and unfiltered flavors, ideal for enthusiasts seeking intensity and depth.
• Collectors: With only 1502 bottles produced, this limited-edition release is a prized addition to any whisky collection.

About the Brand

Murray McDavid is a renowned independent Scotch whisky bottler, founded in 1994 and based at the historic Coleburn Distillery in Speyside. Known for their innovative approach, Murray McDavid pushes the boundaries of traditional whisky-making by experimenting with a wide range of cask finishes, including wine, rum, beer, and port casks.