Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 08:45 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Explore the differences between Caol Ila 12 and Clynelish 14 in this detailed comparison and make a choice on which malt suits your preferences best!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Caol Ila 12 vs Clynelish 14: Comparison
Caol Ila 12: A peaty Islay single malt with smoked ham, apple, pear aromas, and a palate of red fruit, caramel, vanilla, and lemon zest. Known for its balanced smokiness and approachability. 86 proof.
Clynelish 14: A Speyside Scotch with citrus, baking spice, and smoke on the nose, and a palate featuring honey, pepper, ripe fruit, and a unique waxy texture. It’s subtly peated and well-balanced. 92 proof.
Verdict: Caol Ila 12 is ideal for those intrigued by Islay’s peaty whiskies but prefer a milder introduction, while Clynelish 14 offers a complex, fruity, and slightly smoky experience with a unique texture, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best-Rated Peaty Whiskies
Caol Ila 12: A Peaty Whisky with Island Charm
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Lagavulin 16
Craving a taste of the smoky Scottish isle of Islay? Look no further than Caol Ila 12. This single malt whisky offers a meaty aroma like smoked ham, balanced by subtle sweetness of apple and pear.
On the tongue, it’s smooth and creamy with juicy red fruits, rich caramel, and hints of vanilla and lemon. The smokiness comes through gently, lingering with a touch of spice and a mineral earthiness in the long finish.
Here’s what makes Caol Ila 12 special:
- Balanced and smooth: Enjoy the subtle creaminess without an overwhelming smokiness.
- Lighter peat: Compared to other Islay whiskies, Caol Ila’s copper-pot distillation creates a milder peat character.
- Approachable peaty dram: Perfect for those new to peaty whiskies, offering a taste of Islay without the intensity of some other well-known brands.
Tips for enjoying Caol Ila 12:
- If the peaty smoke is a bit strong, add a few drops of water to unlock floral and sweeter notes.
Caol Ila 12: A Storied Whisky
- Aged for at least 12 years in traditional oak casks.
- Awarded Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Gold at the International Spirits Challenge.
- Founded in 1846 on the isle of Islay, contributing significantly to the Johnnie Walker Black Label blend.
Ready to embark on an Islay adventure? Caol Ila 12 awaits!
Clynelish 14: A Well-Balanced Speyside Scotch
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Oban 14
The Clynelish 14 offers a pleasant surprise with its subtle and inviting nose. Think citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg joining the party. There’s even a hint of smoke for a touch of intrigue.
On the palate, it gets interesting. The Clynelish 14 has a unique waxy texture, complemented by a gentle peppery kick and sweet notes of honey and ripe fruit. The smoke you noticed on the nose makes a subtle comeback here, adding depth without overpowering the other flavors.
The finish is long and satisfying, with a bittersweet touch and a distinctive mineral note. Overall, the Clynelish 14 is a delightful and easy-drinking dram. It’s complex, creamy, and rich, but still manages to be smooth and well-balanced.
Here’s what makes Clynelish 14 stand out:
- Fruity and spicy: It offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory notes.
- Subtly peated: Not as smoky as Islay whiskies, but the peat adds a touch of complexity.
- Unique waxy texture: This adds to its character and makes it stand out from other Speyside malts.
Tips for enjoying Clynelish 14:
- Let it breathe in the glass for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add a few drops of water to open up the flavors even further.
Bonus facts:
- Aged for 14 years in both bourbon and sherry casks.
- Part of a long lineage, with the original Clynelish distillery built in 1819.
- A major contributor to Johnnie Walker’s Gold Label blend.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Caol Ila 12 | $84 |
| Clynelish 14 | $75 |