Founded in 1846, Caol Ila is derived from Gaelic Caol Ìle for “Sound of Islay” in reference to the distillery’s location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura.
Caol Ila is one of the lighter Islay whiskies, pale in colour, with peaty, floral and peppery notes. In addition to being sold as a single malt, it is used heavily (around 95% of their production) in blends such as Johnnie Walker’s Black Label. Since 1999, the distillery has also produced a non-peated “highland spirit”.
Upgradation of the Caol Ila distillery in 2018 was announced as part of Diageo’s £150m upgradation plan in upgrading all facilities it owns Scotland. The upgradation at Caol Ila included a new visitor centre, a footbridge entry, new car parking and a bar with views across the Sound of Islay to Jura.
In the cask investment segment, Caol Ila casks have recently become one of the best performing investments in the market.
Region: Islay
Area: Isle of Islay / Argyll
Current Owner: Diageo
Founded : 1846
Founder : Henderson, Lamont & Co
No. of wash stills: 3
No. of spirit stills: 3
Capacity (litres): 6,500,000.00
Website: www.diageo.com
English