The Islay Youngster.
 
The Caol Ila Distillery was founded in 1846 by Hector Handerson on the Isle of Islay, in a location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura, hence the name which derived from Gaeliec Caol Ìle, meaning Sound of Islay or literary, Islay Strait. Over the years Caol Ila has changed owners numerious times, eventually it became part of Diageo.
 
Caol Ila 12 Year Old is a malt that takes you back to the coastal shores it comes from. Hailing from Islay, this is a smoky and sweet expression, a classic combination that Caol Ila 12 nails perfectly. There is also the slightest hint of herbs and spices from nose to finish, adding a smooth complexity that piques the interest of the taste buds in just the right way. Don’t be fooled into thinking this is just like every other smoked Islay malt. The Caol Ila 12 Year Old has a lot more to offer than just peat.