Subtle smoke. Maritime soul. Caol Ila 12 Year Old is Islay’s quiet powerhouse, less thunder, more depth. It doesn’t shout peat like its island cousins, but it delivers something even more captivating: balance, clarity, and coastal elegance with a smoky heartbeat.

Caol Ila 12 Year Old 70cl
Brand: Caol Ila | Category: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ABV: 43% | Origin: Scotland | Vol: 700ml

Tasting Profile
Nose: Briny and elegant, sea spray, citrus zest, green olive, and soft peat smoke drift with hints of pear and cereal.
Palate: Clean and smoky, sweet malt, lemon peel, white pepper, and savory smoke develop on a light, oily texture.
Finish: Long and coastal, drying peat, crushed shells, and a soft medicinal note linger like ocean wind on stone.

Production Details
Distilled on Islay’s rugged northeastern coast, Caol Ila 12 is matured in refill American oak casks, allowing its bright spirit and subtle peat to shine. Bottled at 43%, it’s one of the most accessible and balanced smoky whiskies on the market.

Perfect For
Islay newcomers and seasoned peat lovers alike. Ideal for sipping by the sea, or for moments that need something elemental, but refined.

Expert Notes
Often called the “gateway to Islay,” Caol Ila 12 is praised for its light body, maritime complexity, and measured smoke. A bartender favorite for smoky whisky cocktails that don’t overpower.

Customer Reviews
“Peated, yes but elegant. My favorite intro to Islay.”
“It’s like sipping the coast. Smoky, salty, and smooth.”
“Caol Ila always hits that sweet spot between bold and balanced.”

Interesting Fact
Though long overshadowed by louder Islay names, Caol Ila has been a behind the scenes giant, providing smoky malt for blends like Johnnie Walker Black Label for decades before rising as a cult single malt favorite.

Serving Suggestions
Best enjoyed neat in a tulip glass. Add a splash of water to bring out citrus and barley. Pairs beautifully with oysters, smoked salmon, or a rainy evening and a good book.

Distillery Background
Founded in 1846, Caol Ila sits tucked in a remote cove near Port Askaig on Islay. Overlooking the Sound of Islay (from which it takes its name), the distillery is known for producing one of the cleanest, most structured smoky malts on the island, a whisky of both place and precision.