Islay, a remote and picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland, is a place where nature's rugged beauty and the alchemy of whisky production converge. Known as the “Queen of the Hebrides,” Islay is currently home to nine working distilleries (with more planning to open in the next few years), each with its own unique history, flavor profile and charm.
Ardbeg Distillery: Located on the southern coast of Islay, Ardbeg has a history that can be traced back to 1815 when it was officially founded. Throughout its existence, the distillery has faced periods of closure and financial struggles. However, Ardbeg was lovingly restored in the 1990s, becoming a symbol of Islay’s whisky revival. Since 2005, the distillery has been part of the House of Glenmorangie within Moet Hennessy/LVMH. Ardbeg is renowned for its heavily peated whisky, which has achieved legendary status among enthusiasts. The flavor profile is characterized by an intense smokiness, brine, and earthy notes, with a profound sense of place. Ardbeg’s distinctiveness arises in part from the locally sourced peat used in its production process, imparting a unique Islay character to the whisky. Ardbeg offers an array of immersive experiences for visitors. Guided tours provide insights into the whisky-making process, showcasing traditional methods and modern innovations. The distillery's picturesque setting is perfect for leisurely exploration, and the Old Kiln Café offers delightful meals paired with Ardbeg whiskies.
Experts' Pick: Ardbeg Corryvreckan
Lagavulin Distillery: Lagavulin, founded in 1816, is steeped in history and tradition. Despite facing challenges over the centuries, it has remained a steadfast pillar of Islay's whisky heritage. Lagavulin is celebrated for its profound and complex flavor profile. The whisky is characterized by a deep, peaty smokiness intertwined with maritime notes of seaweed and a subtle interplay of sweetness and saltiness. It is a favorite among whisky connoisseurs who appreciate the depth and nuance of its flavors. Lagavulin offers an assortment of tours, including the coveted “Warehouse Demonstration,” where visitors can savor whisky straight from the cask. The visitor center is a treasure trove of exclusive bottles and Lagavulin memorabilia. A visit here promises not only a whisky education but also breathtaking views of the distillery’s coastal surroundings.
Experts' Pick: Lagavulin 16
Laphroaig Distillery: Founded in 1815, Laphroaig occupies a special place in the hearts of whisky aficionados. Its history is marked by periods of growth, closure, and revival. The distillery continues to evolve; in 2022, Laphroaig welcomed a new Distillery Manager (and Islay native), Barry MacAffer. Its whisky is not for the faint of heart, known for its bold and medicinal peatiness. The flavor profile is characterized by pronounced notes of iodine, seaweed, and a briny undertone. It's a whisky that can be polarizing but is cherished by those who relish its distinctive character. Laphroaig extends a warm welcome to visitors, offering a range of tours, including a walking tour of Laphroaig, which takes you right to the Kilbride water source.
Experts' Pick: Laphroaig Cairdeas 2023 White Port & Madeira Casks
Bowmore Distillery: Bowmore, founded in 1779, holds the distinction of being the oldest distillery on Islay. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Bowmore (the capital of Islay and home to roughly one-third of its population), it is beloved throughout the world. Bowmore whisky is celebrated for its well-balanced peatiness, complemented by fruity, honeyed, and maritime notes. It offers an approachable introduction to Islay whisky, making it a favorite among newcomers to the spirit. The distillery offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into its storied past and continued commitment to the craft.
Experts' Pick: Bowmore 15
Bruichladdich Distillery: Originally built in 1881, Bruichladdich’s history is rife with periods of closure. However, the distillery was revived in 2001 with a focus on artisanal whisky production, placing it squarely in Islay's whisky renaissance. Bruichladdich is known for its diverse range of whisky styles, from unpeated to heavily peated expressions. The distillery prides itself on its commitment to terroir, using locally sourced barley and traditional methods to craft whiskies with an array of flavors, from floral and fruity to peaty and bold.
Experts' Pick: Bruichladdich Bere Barley
Caol Ila Distillery: Caol Ila is nestled on the northeastern coast of Islay, overlooking the Sound of Islay. Its history includes a legacy of supplying whisky for various blends, but it has gained recognition for its single malt releases. Caol Ila's whisky is known for its balanced peatiness, marked by subtle fruitiness. Notes of citrus, vanilla, and a gentle smokiness define its character, making it an accessible choice for those exploring Islay’s whisky offerings. Caol Ila welcomes visitors with guided tours and tastings that offer panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Experts' Pick: Caol Ila 12
Kilchoman Distillery: Established in 2005, Kilchoman stands as one of the newer additions to Islay’s distillery scene. Despite its youth, however, it has quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional single malt whisky. Kilchoman’s whisky showcases youthful vibrancy, with prominent peat smoke and barley sweetness. The distillery is known for its innovative spirit, producing a range of experimental and limited-edition releases that excite whisky enthusiasts. Kilchoman offers tours that provide an up-close look at the whisky-making process. The distillery’s modern facilities offer a contrast to the traditional charm of some older Islay distilleries.
Experts' Pick: Kilchoman Sanaig
Bunnahabhain Distillery: Though less heralded than some of its Islay peers, Bunnahabhain offers some of the most approachable whisky on the Island. Situated on the northern coast of Islay, the distillery was founded in 1881 and has a history of producing unpeated and lightly peated whisky. The flavor profile features a maritime character with notes of nuts, fruit, and a gentle coastal brine; it appeals to those seeking a milder Islay whisky experience. Bunnahabhain offers guided tours and tastings that allow visitors to explore the serene surroundings of the distillery.
Experts' Pick: Bunnahabhain 18
Ardnahoe Distillery: Ardnahoe only opened its doors in 2019. Located on the northeastern coast of the island, it represents a contemporary chapter in Islay's whisky story. Still in its early years, it's exciting to see what will come out of the stills at Ardnahoe. The distillery is in great hands with the legendary Jim McEwan overseeing production. Jim previously worked at Bowmore and then served as the Master Distiller at Bruichladdich.
Experts' Pick: TBD!
Islay's nine working distilleries offer a treasure trove of diverse whisky experiences. From the intense peatiness of Ardbeg to the unpeated charm of Bunnahabhain, each distillery carries a rich history and traditions that contribute to the tapestry of Islay's whisky culture. Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a novice eager to explore this captivating world, Islay offers a range of flavors and experiences that are sure to leave an indelible mark on your whisky journey.
