I think you might have a lot less misses than you might imagine. Try to stick to the top DIBs, like Signatory, G&M, Cadenheads, Adelphi, etc. Also, try to get their Cask Strength offerings. I personally shy away from anything bottled at less than 46%. IBs are good not only for more Cash Strength versions of the OBs but also for different takes on what the distillery produces.
Funnily enough, I'm a big fan of Caol Ila, especially Indies, given its core range is very small (and very good imo, although low proof). If Diageo wanted, and not sure why they they don't do it, Caol Ila could have one of the top Core Ranges in Islay. They are already the largest. Almost all of it goes into the JW offerings, unfortunately.