Islay is the southernmost island of the Hebrides archipelago. It numbers over 3,000 inhabitants and its capital is Bowmore. It boasts 9 distilleries.
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Scotland, Islay Blended Scotch Whisky
- 100 cl
Scotland, Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Price €42.50
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Islay Whisky: Discover the Legendary Peated Single Malts from Scotland's Iconic Island
Islay (pronounced "Eye-lah") is one of the six official Scotch whisky regions of Scotland. Despite having only nine working distilleries, this island has an outsized influence in the whisky world. What sets Islay whisky apart is its strong association with peat: an organic material formed from decaying vegetation in wet soils, traditionally used to dry malted barley. This imparts bold aromas of smoke, earth, ash, tar, and even seaweed.
But there's more to Islay than peat. The marine environment, salty winds, loch water, humid microclimate, and centuries of distillation heritage all shape the unique identity of Islay single malts.
Iconic Islay Distilleries: Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin, Caol Ila...
Laphroaig: The Most Peated and Medicinal Islay Whisky
One of the most instantly recognizable peated whiskies, Laphroaigis known for its intense notes of phenol, iodine, smoke, and seaweed, with a long, briny finish. It’s a bold whisky, often described as a “love it or hate it” experience.
Lagavulin 16 Year Old: A Balanced and Complex Smoky Malt
One of Islay’s most revered single malts, Lagavulin is slightly less medicinal than Laphroaig but equally smoky. It charms with its rich notes of soft smoke, leather, dried fruits, and spiced wood. The 16 Year Old is a must-try.
Ardbeg: The King of Heavily Peated Whiskies
Ardbeg pushes peat intensity to the limit. These whiskies are ultra-peated, with an oily texture and flavors of soot, candied lemon, and roasted coffee. A favorite among peat lovers.
Caol Ila: Accessible, Balanced Peated Whisky
Less famous but widely appreciated, Caol Ila delivers a more approachable Islay experience with smoky, salty, and citrusy notes. A great introduction to the region.
Bowmore: Gentle Peat and Sherry Cask Elegance
Located in Islay’s capital, Bowmore blends peat smoke, tropical fruits, and sherry sweetness. A softer, rounder style that makes it ideal for newcomers.
Kilchoman: Modern Craft Distillery from Islay
Founded in 2005, Kilchoman is a family-run farm distillery that grows its own barley. Its whiskies are known for their fresh peat, buttery texture, and distinctive fruitiness.
The Islay Style: Peat, Sea, Barrels, and Texture
Though peat defines the image of Islay whisky, there's much more behind its character:
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Peat levels (measured in ppm – parts per million) vary. Ardbeg and Laphroaig are heavily peated (>50 ppm), while Bowmore or Bunnahabhain are milder.
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Maritime influences are key: expect iodine, salt, seaweed, and shellfish notes from the coastal environment.
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Cask types (sherry, bourbon, port, etc.) can shape how peat is perceived. A sherry-aged Ardbeg will feel richer, softer than a cask-strength version.
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Texture matters: Islay whiskies can range from oily and dense to dry and mineral.
How to Choose the Right Islay Whisky for Your Taste
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New to peat? Try Caol Ila 12, Bowmore 15, or Bunnahabhain Toiteach A Dha – lightly smoky and well-balanced.
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Love big peat? Go for Ardbeg Uigeadail, Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength, or Kilchoman Machir Bay.
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Prefer sherry influence? Choose Lagavulin Distillers Edition, Bowmore 18, or Ardbeg An Oa.
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Feeling adventurous? Explore limited editions, rare cask finishes (red wine, rum, etc.), or cask strength bottlings.
Islay Whisky & Food Pairings
The bold profile of Islay malts makes them surprisingly food-friendly:
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Strong cheeses: Roquefort, blue cheese, aged cheddar
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Smoked meats: Charcuterie, grilled bacon
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Dark chocolate: Pure cacao, rich ganache
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Seafood: Oysters, mussels—intense maritime pairings
The Whisky Lodge: Your Expert in Islay Single Malts
At The Whisky Lodge, we curate a sharp selection of Islay whiskies, from household names to rare finds. Our passionate team offers tailored advice, guided tastings, and exclusive editions.
Whether you're searching for your first peated dram or a collector’s gem, we help you discover the Islay single malt that matches your taste and experience level.