Some time ago, I found myself in the whiskey shop at Heathrow Airport. While admiring the Talisker display, I was approached by a salesman, who asked where I was headed. "Home to Boston," I told him. He pointed to the display and said, "Talisker is very nice, and maybe you'll get a good price, but can I give you a sample of something else I think you'll like that maybe you can't find at home?" The answer was obviously "yes", and I followed him to the bar-like area in the center of the room. Once behind the counter, he pulled out a bottle of Caol Ila 12. I knew it was readily available in the US, having seen it on more than one liquor store shelf. But I had yet to try it. A few sniffs and a sip later, his belief that I would like it was affirmed. In fact, I loved it. Sold. I've often wondered why the Caol Ila 12 doesn't get more accolades. It certainly doesn't get trashed, but it doesn't seem to get the same love as some of its Islay bretheren. In my opinion, it deserves it. I left that day with my first liter of the 12. I also went back to the Talisker display and grabbed a 10 and a Dark Storm, as well as a Chita Single Grain. All in all, a excellent layover!