Isle of Arran Distilleries - The island known for its whisky production

Written By Ari Pournaras

A Spirited Guide to the Isle of Arran: Distilleries, Tours, and Tastings

The Isle of Arran, a picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland, is not only celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its exceptional whisky production. With two whisky distilleries and a recent addition of a gin distillery, the island has quickly become a destination for spirits enthusiasts. In this guide, we will explore the distilleries of the Isle of Arran, detailing their histories, offerings, and how you can embark on an unforgettable tour and tasting experience. So here at This Must Be The Place, we wanted to give you a quick taste of what you can expect during your stay on Arran.

Isle of Arran Distillers: Lochranza and Lagg Distilleries

Established in 1995, the Isle of Arran Distillers operates two distilleries on the island, each with its unique character and appeal.

Lochranza Distillery

Nestled in the north of the island near the village of Lochranza, the Lochranza Distillery marked the return of whisky production to the Isle of Arran after nearly 160 years. The distillery takes advantage of the island's natural resources, utilizing the pure water of Loch na Davie and sourcing barley from the surrounding fields.

Lochranza Distillery produces a range of single malt whiskies, known for their smooth, fruity, and slightly spicy character. The core range includes the flagship Arran 10 Year Old, as well as a variety of aged expressions and limited editions.

Visitors can embark on a guided tour of the distillery, where they can witness the whisky-making process and learn about the history of the Isle of Arran Distillers. The tour concludes with a tasting session, allowing guests to sample the distillery's exceptional whiskies. Advanced booking is recommended to secure a spot on the tour.

Lagg Distillery

Opened in 2019, the Lagg Distillery is the newest addition to the Isle of Arran Distillers family. Located in the south of the island, Lagg focuses on producing peated single malt whiskies, characterized by their rich, smoky, and complex flavors.

The state-of-the-art Lagg Distillery is also home to a visitor center, offering guided tours that delve into the distillery's history, production techniques, and the influence of peat on whisky flavor. The tour concludes with a tasting session of the distillery's signature malts. To ensure a spot, book your tour in advance alongside booking accommodation in Arran.

A New Addition: Arran Gin Distillery

In recent years, the gin industry has experienced a renaissance, and the Isle of Arran has joined the movement with the establishment of the Arran Gin Distillery. This small-batch gin producer combines traditional gin botanicals with locally foraged ingredients, creating a spirit that captures the essence of the island.

Arran Gin Distillery offers tours and tastings, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about the gin-making process and sample the distillery's unique expressions. With a focus on sustainability and a strong connection to the island's landscape, the Arran Gin Distillery is a must-visit for gin enthusiasts and those looking to explore the island's burgeoning spirits scene during their holiday stay on the Isle of Arran.

Tips for Visiting Distilleries on the Isle of Arran

When planning your distillery visits on the Isle of Arran, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Book in advance: Tours and tastings can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel season. Secure your spot by booking your experience in advance.

  • Designate a driver: If you're traveling with a group, ensure that one person abstains from alcohol to drive safely between distilleries.

  • Allow time for exploration: Each distillery offers unique experiences and stories. Give yourself ample time to explore the grounds.

If you have any more questions about the distilleries here on Arran, feel free to get in touch with us today and begin your stay on Arran.

Ari Pournaras