Island Whiskies with a Twist: Jura, Ardnamurchan & Beyond
Scotland’s whisky-producing islands are known for their rugged landscapes, briny air, and bold, distinctive spirits. But in recent years, some distilleries have been pushing boundaries — experimenting with unusual cask finishes, unique terroir influences, and higher ABVs — bringing a fresh twist to the traditional island dram.
Whether you love maritime character, a hint of peat, or something completely unexpected, these island single malts deserve a spot in your collection.
🌊 Jura 21 Year Old Tide – Coastal Maturity in Virgin Oak
The Jura 21 Year Old Tide offers a rare mix of age, boldness, and finesse. Matured in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in virgin American oak, it delivers waves of tropical fruit, spice, and maritime salinity. Bottled at 46.7% ABV, it’s a powerful yet refined island whisky with a long, complex finish.
Why it’s a twist: Jura swaps the usual smoky character for spice and vanilla from fresh oak casks.
🥂 Ardnamurchan Paul Launois – Champagne Meets Scotch
The Ardnamurchan AD/06.22 Paul Launois is one of the most innovative island malts in recent memory. Finished in ex-Champagne casks from boutique French producer Paul Launois, this cask-strength dram (57.5% ABV) bursts with citrus, salt, minerality, and coastal smoke.
Why it’s a twist: Champagne cask maturation is extremely rare in Scotch whisky, adding brightness and texture.
⚓ Bonus Pick: Highland Park 15 Year Old Viking Heart
Don’t overlook Highland Park 15 Viking Heart, a sherry-seasoned Orkney malt bottled in a stunning ceramic decanter. It blends light peat, sweet spices, and citrus in perfect harmony.
Why it’s a twist: A beautiful balance of sherry influence and smoke — elegant, collectible, and unmistakably Highland Park.
Why Island Whiskies Stand Out
- Terroir: Proximity to the sea imparts salinity, minerality, and maritime influence
- Peat Variation: Not all island whiskies are heavily peated — explore the range!
- Innovation: Island distilleries are leading the charge with new finishes and bold expressions
Shop Island Whiskies with Character at Modhaven
From Jura’s bold 21 Year Old to Ardnamurchan’s Champagne-finished rarity, these island malts prove there’s more than just peat to explore.
👉 Browse our full collection of Island Scotch Whiskies and discover something extraordinary.
