Gordon & MacPhail 2002 Caol Ila Distillery 17 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a remarkable independent bottling that captures the smoky elegance of Islay through the lens of one of Scotland’s most respected whisky families. Distilled at the famed Caol Ila Distillery in 2002 and matured for 17 years before bottling, this expression highlights the balance between maritime peat smoke and vibrant fruit that Caol Ila is known for.

Gordon & MacPhail has spent more than a century selecting and maturing exceptional casks from Scotland’s finest distilleries, earning a reputation as one of the most prestigious independent Scotch whisky bottlers. Each release from their Connoisseurs Choice range offers a unique perspective on a distillery’s character, and this Caol Ila bottling showcases that philosophy beautifully.

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Why Buy Gordon & MacPhail 2002 Caol Ila 17 Year Old

This whisky stands out as a mature, cask-strength expression of Caol Ila, one of Islay’s most respected distilleries. Known for producing a lighter yet complex style of peated whisky, Caol Ila often delivers a balance of smoke, citrus, and maritime character that appeals to both seasoned peat lovers and those exploring Islay malts for the first time.

Aged for 17 years and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, this release preserves the individuality of the cask and highlights the distillery’s coastal character. With limited availability and a distinctive vintage, it appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a refined Islay single malt outside of standard distillery bottlings.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma: Sweet toasted cereal with caramelized banana, lemon peel, green apple, vanilla, and delicate peat smoke

Taste: Fresh melon and apple evolving into black pepper, pear, charred oak, and maritime peat smoke

Finish: Long and smoky with citrus brightness and a touch of sea salt

ABV: Approximately 54–55% (Cask Strength)
Region: Islay, Scotland
Age: 17 Years
Vintage: Distilled 2002

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What Goes Best With Gordon & MacPhail Caol Ila 17 Year

• Smoked salmon or grilled seafood

• Oysters or briny shellfish

• Dark chocolate desserts

• Aged cheeses such as cheddar or gouda

The whisky’s balance of peat smoke and citrus freshness pairs exceptionally well with savory coastal dishes and rich desserts.

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Serving Suggestions

• Neat: Best for experiencing its full cask-strength complexity

• With a Few Drops of Water: Opens the citrus and fruit notes

• Single Large Ice Cube: Softens the smoke and reveals sweetness

• After Dinner Dram: Perfect for slow sipping and contemplation

Because it is bottled at cask strength, experimenting with small amounts of water can unlock additional aromas and flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gordon & MacPhail?
Gordon & MacPhail is a renowned independent Scotch whisky bottler founded in 1895 that matures and releases whiskies from many of Scotland’s top distilleries.

Is this a distillery bottling from Caol Ila?
No. It is an independent bottling, meaning Gordon & MacPhail matured and bottled the whisky after sourcing it from the Caol Ila distillery.

Is this whisky heavily peated?
Caol Ila whiskies are typically smoky but balanced, offering peat alongside citrus, fruit, and maritime notes.

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Our Guarantee | Quality Liquor Store

At Quality Liquor Store, every bottle of Gordon & MacPhail 2002 Caol Ila Distillery 17 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is sourced from trusted distributors and handled with exceptional care. We inspect and securely package each order to ensure authenticity and safe delivery. When you purchase from us, you receive a distinctive vintage Islay single malt backed by a retailer committed to quality, reliability, and exceptional service.