Caol Ila Unveils 2026 Islay Jazz Festival The Drummer 19 Year Old Bulleit Bourbon Cask Aged

Matured in a combination of American oak and ex-Bulleit Bourbon casks, Caol Ila has released The Drummer, the second expression in a trilogy of bottles marking the partnership between the distillery and the 2026 Islay Jazz Festival.

Following last year’s The Guitarist, this latest expression promises an extraordinarily sweet and spicy profile for the coastal distillery. The whisky is said to pair smooth, rich layers of warmth with subtle undertones of Caol Ila’s signature maritime smoke.

Caol Ila is also hosting a number of experiences for whisky fans during this year’s festival, which takes place from September 11th to the 13th. 

As part of the distillery's Spirit of Smoke: Cask Draw & Tasting Experience, guests will enjoy a guided maturation warehouse tasting featuring five distillery-exclusive expressions drawn directly from the cask at full natural strength.

Throughout the festival weekend, the distillery will also host a curated lineup of acclaimed Scottish musicians for live concert performances and intimate solo sets, accompanied by a series of specialized tasting sessions.

The full music programme will continue the festival’s tradition of presenting diverse jazz styles in intimate and scenic locations across the island.

It will kick off at Caol Ila with performances from acclaimed saxophonist and composer Laura Macdonald and award-winning guitarist Graeme Stephen.

The latter will premiere his latest work, ORWELL, inspired by George Orwell’s iconic novel 1984 and written during his time on the neighbouring island of Jura.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team