The Islay Region - Peated Whisky Paradise

The Islay region. 🥃 The whisky island! Much revered by whisky die-hards and world-renowned for just ONE type of Scotch whisky flavour profile.

What is Islay?

The Islay region – pronounced EYE-LAH - is named after the island of Islay where all the region’s whisky is produced. It’s one of Scotland’s FIVE legally protected Scotch whisky-producing regions and perhaps one of the most popular.

Where is Islay?

Known as the Queen of the Hebrides it is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides. It’s only 25 miles long, north to south, and only 15 miles long, east to west, with a population of around 3200 people.

How many distilleries belong to the Islay Whisky region?

Currently there are 10 distilleries on Islay:

Ardbeg

Ardnahoe

Bowmore

Bruichladdich

Bunnahabhain

Caol Ila

Kilchoman

Lagavaulin

Laphroaig

Port Ellen - which has only just reopened after being mothballed for 40 years!

Any other distilleries set to open?

Yes, Elixir Distillers are opening Portintruan Distillery later this year and Ian Macleod and partners set to open Laggan Bay Distillery in 2025. Additionally, Chivas Brothers have announced plans to build a distillery, which will be carbon neutral in its distilling operations from the outset.

What is the region known for?

The Islay region is world-known for producing PEATED whisky. Peated whisky is made by using malted barley that has been dried over a peat fire.

Peat beds are in abundance on the island and indeed all-over northern Scotland. There are few trees, so traditionally peat bricks (cut from the beds) were used as a source of fuel and that tradition continues today.

What does peated whisky taste like?

It has a robust character with a flavour that can be described as smoky, earthy, and often medicinal. Like a late-night beachside campfire - in a glass! 🔥

Should I visit?

Yes, it’s almost a MUST if you’re a fan of Scotch whisky, particularly peated whisky.

Any whisky festivals I should know about?

Yes, Fèis Ìle, or the Islay Festival, is a gathering of Scotch whisky fans from all over the world in the last week of May.

This festival is filled with whisky, music and culture. It’s extremely popular with whisky lovers who gravitate to this small island year after year to enjoy the music and catch up with friends over a dram or two. Most of the Islay distilleries will open their doors to welcome guests on different days of the week.

Are you a fan of Islay whisky or peated whisky in general? Have you ever visited one of the distilleries on Islay, or do you plan to go this year? Let me know in the comments.

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