Explore Islay Whisky
Why we love Islay Scotch whisky
Distilling began with the arrival of monks on Islay (pronounced ‘eye-luh’) in the 14th century. Allegedly, with its unlimited peat supplies and plentiful lochs and rivers, they dubbed it the perfect place for whisky production – and we're sure the thousands of Islay whisky fans across the world would agree!
Islay’s famed smoky, peaty whisky now has something of a cult following, but originally it wasn’t a creative choice. Peat was simply what distillers had to hand to use in the malting process to dry the barley.
Attributes of Islay whisky
Islay peat is distinctly different from mainland Scottish peat, made up of seaweed, giving the whisky a distinctive coastal, medicinal character that is so well-loved. Most distilleries were built on the coastline, which further contributes to the savoury, coastal qualities associated with the region. However, we mustn't forget the excellent Bruichladdich and Bunnahabhain distilleries, which both produce unpeated Islay whiskies.
What does Islay whisky taste like?
You can expect rich smoke, laden with earthy peat, medicinal notes. sea air, and seaweed notes – with many Islay whiskies boasting an oily texture and flavour.
OUR ISLAY PICKS
