Discovering the Lagavulin Distillery - Secrets, Surprises and More
It’s not a surprise that Lagavulin whisky is so distinct. So defined. The single malt whisky - celebrated across the world for its intense flavour, recognised by its unrivalled peat, smoke and robust character - is a product of its surroundings, the equally singular and unmistakable Islay.
With each sip of Lagavulin, you’re experiencing a sensory adventure through the sweeping maritime scenery and rugged, robust island life of the Isle of Islay. It’s a spirit that deserves to be savoured, and a whisky that isn’t rushed.
You’ve no doubt discovered the dram by now, but are you ready to go beyond the bottle? Unlock the history, heritage and heart of the brand and discover how Lagavulin has brought a taste of island life to pop culture lovers, tastemakers and whisky lovers around the world.
Where is the Lagavulin distillery?
The Lagavulin distillery has called the Isle of Islay home for over 200 years. Situated in a small bay near the ruins of Dunyvaig Castle, the distillery is just a couple of miles outside the village of Port Ellen.
The origin of the distillery dates back to at least 1816, the year it was ‘officially’ founded by John Johnston, though, records suggest there was some illicit distilling going on as far back as the 1740s.
Being situated at its own bay - that’s the aptly named Lagavulin Bay - is not just a scenic bonus, but also part of the whisky’s story. The distillery’s water source flows down from the Lochan Solum into the bay, bringing natural character to each dram.
How Lagavulin’s location influences the taste of its whisky
Being a jewel in the crown of the Queen of the Hebrides - as Islay is referred to - the distillery produces whisky that is unmistakably influenced and shaped by the dramatic landscapes, the plentiful wildlife, the roaring shores and the babbling creeks.
More specifically, for those getting into their whisky tasting, look out for key influences and features throughout Lagavulin expressions, including...
Locally sourced peat from the nearby Port Ellen maltings gives the distinctive, intense smoky flavour that all Lagavulin fans know and love.
The salty, maritime notes easily identifiable on the nose and the taste of the whisky come from the exposure to such unspoiled Atlantic ocean air.
The cool, damp conditions slow down aging, allowing for the long maturation in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, and mellowing of the spirit without losing its peaty backbone.
What to see and do at Lagavulin distillery
When visitors come to Lagavulin, they’re offered an exciting and unrivalled look behind the scenes at one of the most iconic distilleries across the whisky regions of Scotland.
The distillery tour experience
There are a number of guided tours available throughout the year, where you’ll learn all about what goes into making such an iconic whisky, and you’ll get the chance to see the pear-shaped stills, taste some drams and even experience Distillery Exclusive expressions. That’s right. Whisky you can only get right on location.
Wildlife and nature at Lagavulin
Finishing your tour doesn’t mean finishing your experience at Lagavulin. Stay and discover more about how the brand operates today, including how they continue to preserve and work to sustain the environment which has such an impact on the whisky.
For a start, take in the stunning views of Lagavulin Bay. Not only does it make for an ultimate ‘wish you were here’ picture, there’s a strong possibility you’ll spot some seals! And if spotting animals in the gorgeous, natural isle is your thing, you might just spot some chancing sparrows. The distillery staff explain that, after the malted barley is delivered each day, the sparrows flock around hoping to get a grain or two.
Other noted conservation highlights include the beehive at the front of the distillery, not used to harvest the honey but to promote pollination in the area.
The fascinating histories and mysteries of Lagavulin
While you might be fully immersed in the very tried and true methodologies on display by the distillery workers, don’t count out some more unexplained experiences during your visit to Lagavulin. With a legacy spanning centuries, there’s plenty of folklore and tales that add even more character to the storeyed brand.
And there is, perhaps, no tale more famous than that of Sir Peter Mackie and his ghost.
Legend has it that the spirit of Sir Peter - the visionary behind the White Horse blend and one-time owner of Lagavulin - still lingers at the distillery he once fiercely protected. Known for his unrelenting passion and eccentric ways, Sir Peter was instrumental in shaping Lagavulin’s reputation for bold, smoky whiskies.
Locals and staff whisper that his ghost roams the still house, especially on stormy Islay nights, watching over operations to ensure his legacy is upheld. Some even claim to feel a sudden chill or catch the faint scent of peat smoke when no one else is around - a sure sign that 'Restless Peter' is near. Could you be ‘lucky’ and spot Sir Peter?
Be sure to take a picture of the Lagavulin bell - a piece of history
The bell that is shown on Lagavulin’s crest is from Lagavulin church (now Lagavulin Hall). This bell is a piece of living history, connecting the brand’s past, present and future.
When the church was deconsecrated, the bell was removed and kept in the distillery grounds. Why? Because it’s considered very unlucky to destroy a church bell. One of the distillery workers, the late Islay Heads, thought it was very disrespectful that the bell was just left in a corner.
He was the one who moved the bell to the top of the hill where it remains to this day, overlooking the distillery and standing as an important part of the village’s story.
I have travelled the world and sampled many attempts at pleasing nectars, but it is solely this distillation of Islay; a tiny charismatic Scottish isle, that has claimed my palate.
-Nick Offerman, Actor
From its notably slow distillation - indeed, one of the of the slowest distillation processes in Scotland, which helps deepen the whisky's complexity - to the award-winning reputation of signature bottlings like the Lagavulin 16, Lagavulin has always been known. A whisky for whisky lovers.
But today Lagavulin has emerged as something more. From the cult-like following of figures like Iain McArthur, the warehouseman who worked for decades at the distillery and has earnt his revered status, to pop culture collaborations making it legendary in its own right, people all over the world enjoy a taste of the windswept Isle of Islay.
One of the most famous collaborations includes the ‘Offerman Editions’ - a pairing between Parks and Recreation star (and whisky lover) Nick Offerman. Known for his tough-talking character, Ron Swanson, Nick’s partnership has gained cult fans and spawned viral videos.
How to travel to Lagavulin distillery
Ready to book your own distillery visit now? Here are some handy tips for planning the practicalities.
Getting to Islay
Islay, as the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, might sound difficult to get to, but there’s plenty of options if you’re eager to cross the threshold of the Lagavulin distillery.
There are daily flights from Glasgow Airport and, if driving, you can get the ferry to the island from Kennacraig. However you make the journey, it’ll be more than worth it. With over 130 miles of coastline, Islay’s mix of sandy and shingle beaches are a standout feature of the coastal island, with plenty of beaches for swimming in the Atlantic Ocean or just soaking up that fresh, sea air. The safest beaches for swimming are at Laggan Bay, Loch Gruinart and Loch Indaal.
Getting to the distillery
Lagavulin distillery is located around 2 miles outside the village of Port Ellen on the A846. Lagavulin is accessible via car and has free parking available.
If you’re really keen to soak up as much of Islay as possible, there’s a foot and cycle path from Port Ellen. And what better reward after a couple of miles walking than a drink direct from the distillery?
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