Caol Ila or the "Sound of Islay" Distillery is based near Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay. Overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura, it was founded in 1846 but quickly changed hands and has been traded numerous times in its long history. Now a part of Diageo, this 2008 malt benefits from maturation in a wonderful Pedro Ximenez sherry hogshead; taking colour and flavour and transforming the often pale coloured liquid that is a signature of Caol Ila whisky. The sherry cask does however enhance the delicious peaty, floral and peppery notes adding layers of delicious chocolate and toasted barbeque notes.