Community

An Island of character, a whisky of depth

Lagavulin is more than a distillery—it's a community of passionate individuals united by exceptional whisky. From Islay's master distillers to global enthusiasts, our craft is a labour of love reflecting a legacy of tradition, dedication, and quality. Each bottle embodies the remarkable people and culture behind it. Explore their stories and see how their passion defines Lagavulin.

Hand placing a Lagavulin whisky bottle on a white rock on Islay

Iain McArthur

The Legend of Lagavulin

After 53 years of working with whisky at Lagavulin and Port Ellen, Iain McArthur hung up his valinch for a final time in December 2023. Famous for his legendary Warehouse Tastings at Lagavulin, this film captures Iain’s last few days at the distillery, celebrating the contribution he’s made to bringing the joy of Islay’s finest whiskies to the world.

Jordan Paisley, Lagavulin Distillery Manager, sitting at the Islay distillery

Meet our people

Meet Jordan, Distillery Manager

As a native of Islay, Jordan Paisley's deep-rooted family heritage on the island spans centuries. He appreciates the unique aspects that make Lagavulin exceptional, from its rich history and premium barley from Port Ellen Maltings to Islay's distinct peat and water.

"No other whisky builds layer upon layer so intriguingly," Jordan remarks. His vision blends tradition with sensory adventure, ensuring that under his leadership, Lagavulin remains as warm and authentic as Islay itself.

Meet Kirsten, first female Senior Operator

We're proud to introduce Kirsten Robertson as the Senior Operator at Lagavulin. Originally from Edinburgh, Kirsten Robertson formed a deep connection with Islay during childhood visits. She first joined the team in 2022 as the Assistant Manager at distillery’s brand home.

As Lagavulin's first female Senior Operator, Kirsten oversees the whisky-making process from grain to glass, focusing on sustainability and high quality. She values her co-workers' knowledge and enjoys meeting others passionate about Lagavulin's world-renowned whisky.

Kirsten Robertson, Lagavulin’s first female Senior Operator, leaning against the doorway of the distillery

FÈIS ÌLE

The Islay Festival

Fèis Ìle transforms Islay each May, drawing whisky enthusiasts from across the globe to our remarkable island. What began as a local gathering has matured into ten unforgettable days where exceptional malts meet traditional music, and Islay's rich heritage comes alive through every sense. From exclusive distillery tastings to vibrant ceilidhs under starlit skies, experience the warmth and distinctive character that makes this festival legendary.

Discover Fèis Ìle

Inspiration

Taste Trips: A Scottish Homecoming

Join award-winning bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, known as Mr Lyan, in his culinary adventure series as he returns to Scotland, once his home for seven years. In this episode, Mr Lyan explores the iconic Lagavulin distillery on Islay where he meets Karen, our Experience & Events Manager, and Kirsten, our pioneering Senior Operator. Together, they reveal the time-honoured craft behind our legendary whisky. 

Watch the full episode
Ryan Chetiyawardana, Mr Lyan, standing in the fields by the Lagavulin distillery on Islay
Nick Offerman at Lagavulin distillery for his Tales of Whisky collaboration

my Tales of whisky

Islay stole my heart

Nick Offerman's first encounter with Lagavulin Scotch in his late twenties changed his palate forever. Previously a fan of beer and Irish whiskey, the intense smokiness of Lagavulin led him to quip, "I needed a campfire in my mouth."

His portrayal of Ron Swanson on Parks and Recreation reflected this preference, sparking a real-life partnership with the distillery in 2014. This relationship was humorously showcased on the show when Offerman 'visited' the distillery, merging fiction and reality.

The collaboration led to the "Offerman Edition" whiskies, including the notably smoky 11-Year Charred Oak Cask, underscoring Offerman's deep connection with Lagavulin. His engagement extends beyond acting to woodworking, mirroring his dedication to artisanal quality in his whisky ventures. This collaboration, where life echoes art, remains robust, adding a significant layer to Offerman's journey and Lagavulin's storied legacy.

The smoky and rich flavours will warm your senses; the music, people, and Islay will warm your spirit.

Explore the world of Malts

Malts Club
BECOME A MEMBER

Sign up to unlock rich rewards that bring you closer to our exceptional whiskies and distilleries.