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Caol Ila

The Caol Ila distillery was founded in 1846 and is situated on the shores of the Sound, a spot originally chosen partly because of the clean water from Loch Nam Ban which still provides its main supply.

Caol Ila is the Gaelic name for the Sound of Islay, which separates the island from Jura in one of the most remote and beautiful parts of Scotland's West Coast. Nestled in a hidden cove near Port Askaig, the Caol Ila (pronounced “Cull Eela”) distillery sent its whisky to market by sea for over a hundred years.

Caol Ila™ has remained undiscovered by many but has become much-prized by malts lovers across the world. Those lucky enough to visit us will have experienced the wonderful Islay setting that is brought to life through the range of Caol Ila whiskies, led by the 12 year old Caol Ila Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

However, there are many things that have not changed. Caol Ila is the only distillery on Islay to face due east, and every morning the six stills are the first to feel the dawn of the day on their copper faces.

The barley used here is still malted locally at Port Ellen and pure spring water still rises from limestone in nearby Loch nam Ban, then falls to the sea at Caol Ila in a clear crystal stream, just as it always has.

Fresh, sweetly fruity and smooth-bodied, Caol Ila 12 year old single malt Scotch whisky is the colour of pale straw, with a delicate balance of tastes. The clean, appetising nose shows subtle citrus fruit with just a puff of smoke. Firm and smooth, it begins sweetly then yields a fragrant smokiness and a sweet-smoky, lingering finish.