ARTIST #15 Something in the Water is a remarkable 40-year-old Islay single malt Scotch whisky from Caol Ila Distillery, distilled in 1984 and bottled at cask strength 51.3% ABV. This extraordinary expression, limited to just 99 bottles, represents the fifteenth anniversary release from ARTIST, showcasing four decades of patient maturation in refill Highland oak barrels on Scotland's legendary whisky island.

From the weathered shores of Islay's Sound of Islay, Caol Ila Distillery has been crafting exceptional single malts since 1846. This cask #848000636 was individually selected and bottled in Scotland by La Maison du Whisky, capturing the essence of Islay's maritime terroir where Atlantic winds carry salt spray across aging warehouses. The distillery's copper pot stills, fed by the soft waters of Loch Nam Ban, create the foundation for whiskies that embody the wild character of Scotland's Inner Hebrides.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Gentle peat smoke, sea salt, dried kelp, aged leather, honey-drizzled oatcakes
• Palate: Maritime brine, charred oak, dark chocolate, coastal herbs, sun-warmed stones, subtle iodine
• Finish: Long and complex with lingering peat smoke, salted caramel, weathered driftwood, and whispers of ancient sea caves

Product Details

Perfect For

• Contemplative evenings: Sipping neat by the fireside while pondering life's meandering paths
• Special celebrations: Marking milestone anniversaries and once-in-a-lifetime moments
• Whisky connoisseurs: Adding an exceptional aged Islay expression to distinguished collections
• Coastal retreats: Enjoying while watching storms roll across the water, connecting with the sea's eternal rhythm

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ARTIST #15 Something in the Water taste like?

This 40-year-old Caol Ila offers a sophisticated balance of gentle peat smoke, maritime salinity, and complex oak influences. The palate reveals layers of sea brine, dark chocolate, and coastal herbs, while the extended aging has mellowed the typical Islay intensity into something more contemplative and nuanced. The cask strength bottling preserves all the intricate flavors developed over four decades.

Should I add water to this whisky?

At 51.3% ABV, a few drops of water can help open up the complex aromatics and soften the alcohol heat, revealing hidden layers of flavor. Start with just a drop or two and taste, as this rare expression is best appreciated when you can fully experience its maritime character. Many collectors prefer it neat to experience the full cask strength intensity.

How rare is this ARTIST release?

This is an exceptionally rare whisky with only 99 bottles produced worldwide from a single cask. The combination of 40-year aging, Caol Ila provenance, and ARTIST's selective bottling makes this a true collector's item. Each bottle represents a unique piece of Islay whisky history, distilled during the 1980s when production methods were still deeply traditional.

What makes Caol Ila special among Islay distilleries?

Caol Ila produces some of Islay's most elegant peated whiskies, with a lighter, more refined smoke character compared to its Islay neighbors. The distillery's location on the Sound of Islay provides constant maritime influence, while their tall copper stills create a cleaner, more delicate spirit that ages beautifully over extended periods like this 40-year expression.

Is this whisky worth the investment?

For serious collectors and Islay enthusiasts, this represents exceptional value given the 40-year age statement, single cask rarity, and the prestige of both Caol Ila and ARTIST selections. The limited production of 99 bottles, combined with the unique cask character and anniversary significance, makes this likely to appreciate while providing an extraordinary tasting experience for those who open it.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.