Caol Ila Scotch-single
Islay peat, tall stills, a lighter smoke from Port Askaig.
The story behind Caol Ila
Hector Henderson founded Caol Ila in 1846 on the northeast coast of Islay, overlooking the Sound of Islay. The name is Gaelic for Sound of Islay, and locals say it Cull-EE-la. Diageo owns it now, and it is the largest volume distillery on the island.
The malt comes peated to roughly 35 ppm from Port Ellen maltings, the same spec as Lagavulin, yet six tall slender copper stills and a fermentation of at least 55 hours pull a lighter, more fragrant spirit. Most of it sleeps in refill American oak ex-bourbon barrels. About 95 percent goes into blends, Johnnie Walker Black among them, which is why the single malt bottles matter.
Explore the Caol Ila range
Caol Ila runs from a compact 200mL to a 15 Year Old, all at 43 percent ABV. Here is how the expressions we carry stack up.
| Expression | Type | Proof / ABV | Tasting notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caol Ila 12 Yr Old | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | Bright citrus, pear, clean peat smoke, sea salt |
| Caol Ila 15 Yr Old | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | Deeper smoke, dried fruit, brine, long finish |
| Caol Ila Moch | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | No age statement, lighter peat, grassy and citric |
| Caol Ila Distillers Edition | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | Double matured, sherry sweetness under the smoke |
| Caol Ila 18 Yr Old | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | Mellow peat, honey, orchard fruit, soft spice |
| Caol Ila 25 Yr Old | Single Malt Scotch | 86 | Old smoke, wax, tropical fruit, quiet power |
Which Caol Ila is right for you?
The 12 Year Old 750mL is $65.99, our benchmark bottle and the one most people should start with. The 200mL of the same whisky is $26.99, a low risk way to try it, though it is currently out of stock. The 15 Year Old 750mL runs $199.99 and rewards anyone who already knows they like peat. All three are 43 percent ABV. Call the store at (631) 343-7200 for current stock before you drive over.
Entry peat with citrus and brine, gentle enough for a first smoky dram.
More age, deeper smoke and dried fruit for drinkers past the beginner stage.
Small format to test the water before committing to a full bottle.