Caol Ila Distillery

In 1846, Hector Henderson chose a remote and beautiful location to build his distillery on the shores of the Strait of Islay, overlooking the Paps of Jura. To this day, the artisans continue their traditional methods of single malt whisky production to ensure the distinctive quality of Caol Ila single malt whisky. The barley used is malted locally in Port Ellen, and the pure spring water flows from the limestone of nearby Nam Burn lake before reaching the sea at Caol Ila.

Pronounced "Cull Eela," it's the Gaelic name for the Strait of Islay, which separates the island of Jura. For some, the distillery's pronunciation is as remote as its location, perched on the rugged eastern coast, where it has remained hidden since the 19th century. However you say it, it's well worth exploring the fine, smoky whisky produced by generations of islanders.

It reopened its doors in August 2022 after an exciting renovation project.