Islay, Scotland
Award Winning Whisky
International Wine & Spirits Competition — Gold Medal 2009
Caol Ila 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky | 70cl, 43% ABV
A benchmark expression from Caol Ila, one of Islay's most prolific and respected distilleries, the 18 Year Old represents the distillery at its most refined and considered. Sitting on the shores of the Sound of Islay with views across to the Paps of Jura, Caol Ila has long been one of the island's most important distilleries, and this 18-year-old expression showcases why it has earned such a devoted following among Islay whisky enthusiasts.
Compared to some of its more aggressively peated island neighbours, Caol Ila 18 offers a more measured, elegant take on the Islay style. Eighteen years of maturation has allowed the smoke to soften and integrate beautifully, revealing a more complex, layered character beneath — a dram that rewards those who take their time with it. Bottled at 43% ABV, it is approachable enough for those new to peated whisky while offering sufficient depth and nuance to satisfy the most experienced Islay drinker.
Colour
Colour: Pale gold, light and bright
Nose
Nose: Clean and elegant, with gentle peat smoke, fresh citrus, and a distinctive maritime brininess, layered with soft vanilla, green apple, and a delicate floral sweetness.
Palate
Palate: Smooth and well-balanced, opening with lemon zest and light smoke, developing into notes of vanilla, toasted malt, and gentle maritime salinity, with the peat playing a supporting rather than dominant role.
Finish
Finish: Medium to long, clean and refreshing, with lingering smoke, sea salt, and a final note of soft citrus.
Caol Ila
Founded 1846
Islay's largest distillery, Caol Ila, dates to 1846 and endured multiple owners before its 1972 rebuild, coinciding with Brora's closure. Following 2011 investment, capacity grew to 6.5 million litres. Widely available officially and via independent bottlers, it's now part of the Johnnie Walker visitor experience.
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