Islay Scotch Whisky

‘The Whisky Isle’. The only island in the world where there are 3 times more bottles of whisky than residents. The smokiest of holy grails for the whisky lover… Islay. The deep, smoky notes synonymous with Islay come from the fuel source used to dry the damp malt, and the peatiness of the whisky generally depends on the amount of time the malt has been left to dry over the peat blocks. This is true with most island based whiskies, as the main fuel source on the islands is peat dug from the ground. Islay tends to have a deeper peated flavour as the big distillers dry their malt for longer, to achieve the distinctive smoky notes.

There are 9 distilleries which are world famous situated on the Island of Islay, Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bunnahabain, Laphroaig, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, the recently re-opened Bruichladdich, Lagavulin and Port Ellen which ceased production in 1983, however some of its bottles are still being created by independent bottlers Signatory, Douglas Laing & Co and Gordon & MacPhail. A new distillery also recently started production and we wait patiently to taste what is being produced at the newly opened Gartbreck Distillery which is situated south of Bowmore distillery.

Islay is situated off the West Coast of Scotland which boasts perfect whisky making conditions. It has warm sea air perfect for whisky maturation, it has wild winds and salty sea spray. The Island grows its own barley and there is an abundance of peat to be sourced from the ground. Most importantly it has fresh, pure, soft water perfect for whisky making.

Click Here to download your very own guide to the Scottish Islay Whisky Region thanks to VisitScotland.com