Hidden away along the craggy eastern shores of Islay, just north of Port Askaig, Caol Ila operates with quiet industriousness. Its name, meaning “Sound of Islay” in Gaelic, refers to the narrow stretch of water that separates the island from Jura, a vista visible from the still house through enormous windows that seem almost reverent in their framing.

Founded in 1846, the distillery has undergone many transformations, including a complete rebuild in the 1970s. Yet despite its modern appearance and industrial scale, it continues to produce a whisky that is unmistakably Islay in character, though often more restrained than its southern counterparts. Historically, much of its output vanished into blends, particularly within the Johnnie Walker empire, but in recent decades its single malt has rightfully claimed more of the spotlight.

Caol Ila’s production leans toward precision. Long fermentations and tall stills encourage a lighter spirit, allowing the peat to express itself with clarity rather than brute force. The result is a dram that is smoky yet elegant, carrying notes of seaweed, smoked fish, lemon peel, and sometimes a hint of medicinal sweetness, all delivered with a silky texture that belies its strength.

Its location and scale make Caol Ila something of a workhorse, but its flavour suggests a quiet poet working overtime. For those who seek a whisky that captures the soul of Islay without raising its voice, Caol Ila offers a perfectly measured pour.