Firkin Caol Ila 13 years Marsala Cask

Score: 70

Firkin Caol Ila 13 Year Old Marsala Cask brought a smoky twist to the club’s no-theme tasting in Oamaru, landing 4th out of 6 in a lineup that had everything from peat monsters to sherry bombs. Bottled at 48.9% ABV, it’s a single cask release finished in custom double oak barrels seasoned with Marsala wine, a signature move from The Firkin Whisky Co. The nose was a smoky BBQ feast: paprika-rubbed pork ribs, malt loaf, and berry compote over Greek yoghurt. On the palate, it delivered burnt brisket ends, wild honey, and that coastal minerality Caol Ila fans know well—briny pebbles, dried lemon, and a dash of spice. It didn’t quite crack the top three, but it held its own with a confident, smoky swagger. Some found the Marsala finish intriguing but slightly muted, while others loved the balance between sweet and savory. It was the kind of dram that didn’t shout, but had plenty to say if you gave it time. In a tasting full of bold personalities, Firkin Caol Ila was the quiet craftsman—well-built, distinctive, and just quirky enough to be memorable.