Caol Ila 1994 Sassicaia Private Collection

Caol Ila Distillery, founded in 1846 by Hector Henderson on a sheltered yet rocky northeastern stretch of the Isle of Islay, is celebrated not only for its breathtaking views across the Sound of Islay—where everything from naval battleships to whales has been spotted—but also for its status as the largest malt whisky distillery on Islay. Renowned for crafting both peated and unpeated expressions, Caol Ila offers iconic releases like the 12 Year Old and the Distiller’s Edition. Each year, the distillery plays a prominent role in Feis Ile, the Islay Festival of Malt and Music, delighting enthusiasts worldwide with its Islay single malt heritage and coastal charm.