Laggan Bay Opens: The 11th Islay Whisky Distillery
Laggan Bay opens as Islay’s 11th whisky distillery.
Family-owned company Ian Macleod Distillers confirms the news today, revealing the first cask was filled on opening day – 2 April 2026.
Laggan Bay Distillery now begins the process of building a new Islay single malt whisky. Details on style, cask programme and future releases will be shared as the whisky develops.
Say hello to Leonard Russell!
Creating a new Islay whisky
The distillery is led by Malcolm Rennie, an Islay native with decades of experience in Scotch whisky production. The distillery manager created a new team develop a “style that will stand on its own within Islay”. One that is will be shaped by the sensitive coastal environment.
Overlooking the sands of Laggan Bay, the distillery takes its name from this windswept coastline, defined by its ever‑changing Atlantic outlook and frequent bottlenose dolphin visitors. The latter are seen in the distillery’s logo.
Malcolm Rennie said: “Coming home to Islay to help shape Laggan Bay single malt is something I’m proud of. It’s a rare chance to create a new whisky with a strong sense of place, rooted in the character and traditions that define Islay.”
Islay’s 11th distillery opens jts doors!
For the love of Laggan Bay
The distillery has been designed with a clear focus on sustainable environmental management. The site incorporates wetlands to manage liquid waste and support local wildlife. The business will explore renewable energy solutions in partnership with other local organisations.
Leonard Russell, managing director of Ian Macleod Distillers (IMD), said: “Filling the first cask at Laggan Bay is an important moment for us as a family business. We have built this distillery with a long‑term vision, knowing the whisky will grow into its own character. We are not here to replicate what Islay already has – we’re here to add to it, with a whisky shaped by its place, our people, and the choices we make from the start.”
Laggan Bay also reveals it will take part in Fèis Ìle this year. On 31 May 2026, the site will open its doors for a public event, offering an early opportunity to experience the distillery and meet the team. Exciting times!
