Caol Ila is quite simply legendary. This timeless dram is lighter bodied than most Islay whiskies, but boy does it pack a peaty punch. According to whisky expert Dave Broom, Islay's Caol Ila"has cemented its reputation as the island's Mr Consistent. This version shows its character the best, a nose that mixes seashore and grass with a distinct hint of smoked bacon. The peatiness isn't dominant, but flows throughout the palate, scenting, lifting, and subtly changing the mix. A delicious oiliness makes it a great food whisky."We couldn't agree more and recommend pairing its barley sugar, lemon peel, hickory, burnt sourdough crust, oily Spanish jamon, Finnan haddie, dried mint, dried flowers, hay, dew-covered lawns and cracked black pepper flavours with Cullen Skink, stovies and kedgeree. Caol Ila - pronounced'cull-eela'- means"Sound of Islay"and refers to the position of the distillery near Port Askaig overlooking the water that separates the island from neighbouring Jura. Founded in 1846, the distillery has had a tumultuous history. But it has thoroughly earned its fame, not just for its high-quality Single Malts, but for its importance in blends such as Johnnie Walker, Black Bottle and our beloved Compass Box.£60 per 750.00ml