Caol Ila, which means ‘Sound of Islay’ in Gaelic, is named after the stretch of water that separates Islay from the neighbouring island of Jura. Situated on the shores of the Sound, the distillery becomes the Islay Jazz Festival’s official partner, as it returns for its 27^th year in 2025. Bringing together a talented cast of musicians from all over Scotland, an exciting array of performers are set to take the stage when Caol Ila Distillery hosts the three-day event, featuring pianist, Fergus McCreadie, Unharm – a bold and visceral new group fronted by guitarist James Mackay, with neo-soul/jazz vocalist Gaïa, and award-winning bass player and composer David Bowden. Bowden’s ‘Islay Experience’, a live acoustic concert, will take place alongside the atmospheric ageing of Caol Ila’s whisky at the distillery’s maturation warehouse.

The distillery is also hosting a number of Jazz Festival exclusive experiences for whisky fans to enjoy. Highlights include a Jazz-themed Cocktail Masterclass with the talented bar team and Smoke & Salt Food Pairing Experience bringing the bold character of Caol Ila to life through curated canapé pairings. For those looking to delve into this year’s Jazz Edition, Distillery Manager Martin Gaughan is hosting an exclusive warehouse tasting, including handpicked Caol Ila drams specifically for the experience, culminating in a first sip of the 2025 Jazz Edition.

Eleanor Gillies, Caol Ila’s Brand Home Manager, said: “We always love the energy and excitement that the Jazz Festival brings to the island, and we’re honoured to be its partner in 2025. We look forward to hosting performances with the incredible musicians here at the distillery, and to welcoming guests who enjoy the magic of music and whisky coming together. This year’s very special Festival Edition captures that spirit perfectly.  At 18 years old, the expression reflects the essence of Caol Ila’s coastal character, with a gentle, but lingering fade of smouldering ember.”

The whisky itself layers sweet confectionary notes with bold peppery smokiness, interplaying with flavours of toffee apple and cinnamon, while the saline peat remains crisp like a smooth baseline. As a distillery nestled on the shoreline of the island, the whisky’s subtle coastal edge delivers a hint of salt, balanced perfectly with Caol Ila’s signature smooth, gentle smoky character.

This limited-edition release launches at the Caol Ila Distillery from 1^st September. It will also be available at The Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street at an RRSP of £250 and bottled at 52.8% ABV.

Caol Ila Jazz Exclusive experiences now available to book here: https://www.malts.com/en-gb/distilleries/caol-ila