Spirit of Smoke: Cask Draw & Tasting Experience
Refunds and rescheduling are accepted up to 48h before the tour. No refunds or rescheduling after that time.
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An unmissable adventure for whisky lovers, the Spirit of Smoke is a truly special experience where you’ll sample five unique cask-strength Caol Ila expressions that are available only at the distillery. Held in our Maturation Warehouse (dress warm as it can be chilly!), you’ll enjoy the stories of Caol Ila while your expert guide draws the drams you’ll taste directly from the cask, right in front of your eyes.
On this tasting there is a range of casks from a youthful 15 Year Old to a more mature 21 Year Old. This intimate 90-minute tasting gives you a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Caol Ila and a unique insight into the creativity and craft that makes this single malt a whisky to be admired.
All drams are 15ml measures.
Please note if your group requires a translator present, a private experience would be required. Please contact us at caolila@malts.com where we can further advise.
Please note that children are not permitted on this experience.
If you are unable to find a suitable booking time, then please do still visit our retail store and bar where you will receive a warm welcome. Relax with a dram or carefully-curated cocktail and indulge in a locally-sourced tasting platter using Scottish ingredients.
HOW TO GET THERE
Planning your visit
Address
Caol Ila Distillery, Port Askaig Isle of Islay PA46 7RL, United Kingdom
By Car
Caol Ila Distillery is located just off the A846, approximately one mile from the Port Askaig ferry terminal and around twenty miles from Port Ellen ferry terminal. Limited public transport serves the area, with a bus stop located about a fifteen-minute walk from the distillery.
Taxis operate across the island but should be booked in advance, especially during the busy summer season. On-site parking is available for visitors.
Please note that during winter the distillery may have to close at short notice due to weather conditions. Please check our Google listing for up-to-date information before you visit us.
November – February | Sunday – Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00
March – October | Sunday – Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 Please note, we are closed on Fridays & Saturdays
Explore the flavours of Caol Ila and discover your perfect serve, whether you’re a whisky dram loyalist, innovative cocktail enthusiast, or aficionado of alcohol-free quenchers.
The bar at Caol Ila is open 10:00 – 16:00 while the distillery is open to visitors. Last orders are at 15:45.
Please note that all under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult.
View Menu Here. Please note that our menu is subject to change.
Sustainability plays an important role at Caol Ila Distillery. The distillery holds a Green Tourism Award and incorporates a range of environmentally conscious practices within its operations. A heat exchange system uses seawater to cool process water, helping reduce energy consumption.
Additional initiatives focus on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and protecting the surrounding environment of the Sound of Islay.
Caol Ila Distillery aims to make its visitor experiences accessible wherever possible. Step-free access is available in key areas of the visitor centre, including retail and tasting spaces, with lift access between floors. Accessible toilets and parking are available on site. Due to the historic structure of parts of the distillery, the production area includes stairs that may limit access for some visitors; however, alternative ways to experience this part of the tour are available. Assistance dogs are welcome in designated areas.
Assistance dogs are welcome in the visitor centre, retail areas, and tasting spaces at Caol Ila Distillery. However, dogs are not permitted within the production areas of the distillery. Visitors travelling with assistance animals should notify staff at the time of booking so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Caol Ila Distillery FAQs
Caol Ila Distillery is located near the village of Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. The distillery sits on the eastern shore of the island, overlooking the Sound of Islay with views across the water to the Isle of Jura.
Yes. Visitors can explore the distillery through guided tours and whisky tasting experiences that showcase the history, production methods, and signature smoky style of Caol Ila whisky.
Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak travel periods and island whisky festivals, to ensure availability for tours and tastings.
Visitors may be able to access the visitor centre and retail areas without joining a guided tour, depending on availability. Checking in advance is recommended.