Caol Ila (“Cull Eela”) is a staple powerhouse of Islay scotch whiskey. Now owned by Diageo, it is the largest producer on Islay in terms of quantity. The whiskey that isn’t placed into Caol Ila single malt bottles goes into Johnnie Walker or other blends because the beautiful balance of peat adds a wonderful complexity and mystery where needed. In fact, it’s importance in the blended Scotch world is indeed the reason for Caol Ila’s modern-day success. However, the Caol Ila 12 being reviewed here, along with their 25-year and unpeated releases (that’s right, they have unpeated whiskey too!)