Islay is the undisputed capital of peated whisky, home to some of the most iconic and smoky single malts in the world. Whether you’re a longtime peat lover or just exploring this bold whisky style, this guide will take you through the best Islay distilleries and what makes them stand out.
1. Ardbeg Distillery
Why Visit?
- Known for its intensely smoky and complex whiskies.
- Offers some of the most peated drams on Islay.
- Stunning coastal location with breathtaking views.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Ardbeg 10-Year-Old – Classic peated whisky with lemon, smoke, and vanilla.
- Ardbeg Corryvreckan – A bold, high-ABV dram with deep peppery smoke.
- Ardbeg Uigeadail – A heavily sherried peated whisky with layers of richness.
2. Laphroaig Distillery
Why Visit?
- One of the most distinctive Islay distilleries with an unmistakable medicinal and iodine-rich character.
- Offers a unique ‘Friends of Laphroaig’ membership where you can claim a square foot of Islay land.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Laphroaig 10-Year-Old – The quintessential peated whisky, with notes of iodine, seaweed, and medicinal smoke.
- Laphroaig Quarter Cask – Extra maturation in small casks intensifies the smoky, woody character.
- Laphroaig Lore – A complex and rich blend of various aged whiskies.
3. Lagavulin Distillery
Why Visit?
- Produces one of the most revered Islay peated whiskies.
- Slow fermentation and long aging contribute to its legendary smooth smokiness.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Lagavulin 16-Year-Old – A cult favorite, known for its deep, rich peat smoke and sherried sweetness.
- Lagavulin 8-Year-Old – A younger, punchier expression with more vibrant peat.
- Lagavulin Distillers Edition – A smoky whisky with an added layer of Pedro Ximénez cask sweetness.
4. Bruichladdich Distillery (Home of Octomore)
Why Visit?
- Offers a range of whisky styles, from unpeated to the world’s most heavily peated whisky.
- Home to Octomore, the highest-PPM peated whisky ever produced.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Port Charlotte 10-Year-Old – A heavily peated but well-balanced whisky.
- Octomore Series – The peatiest whisky in the world, known for its intense smoke yet surprising smoothness.
- Bruichladdich Classic Laddie – An unpeated Islay whisky, showcasing the region’s terroir.
5. Bowmore Distillery
Why Visit?
- The oldest Islay distillery, producing a more balanced and refined style of peated whisky.
- Features whisky matured in Islay’s famous No.1 Vaults, adding unique maritime characteristics.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Bowmore 12-Year-Old – A more delicate balance of smoke, fruit, and coastal influence.
- Bowmore 15-Year-Old Darkest – Sherry-cask aging adds a rich layer of dried fruit and chocolate.
- Bowmore 18-Year-Old – A well-aged, complex whisky with a perfect blend of peat and sweetness.
6. Kilchoman Distillery
Why Visit?
- One of Islay’s newer, independent distilleries with a focus on traditional whisky-making methods.
- One of the few distilleries that grows its own barley and malts it on-site.
Must-Try Whiskies:
- Kilchoman Machir Bay – A young but vibrant peated whisky with citrus and vanilla.
- Kilchoman Sanaig – Sherried peat with a richer, fruitier profile.
- Kilchoman 100% Islay – A farm-to-bottle whisky made entirely on Islay.
Planning Your Islay Whisky Trip
✔ Book distillery tours in advance – Many distilleries have limited slots.
✔ Consider a guided whisky tour – Great if you want to sample freely without driving.
✔ Try food pairings – Many distilleries offer food and whisky matching experiences.
✔ Visit during Feis Ile – The Islay Whisky Festival – Held in late May, featuring special releases and events.
