Torabhaig - Skye's second distillery with a single malt full of character
Torabhaig Distillery opened in January 2017 as the second licensed whisky distillery on the Isle of Skye, after Talisker. In a lovingly restored former farm and with a modern visitor center, a smoky, elegant single malt is created here - characterized by "well-tempered peat" and maritime character.
Region & Origin
Located in Teangue on the Sleat Peninsula, Torabhaig uses clear water from the Allt Gleann Thorabhaig and Allt Breacach streams. The smoky raw malt is deliberately dosed to achieve depth without overpowering.
Production & craft
Distillation takes place in two copper pot stills (spirit and wash), which have been specially integrated into the historic building. The long fermentation in Douglas Fir washbacks promotes fruity notes, while the controlled peating level (~55-77 ppm) delivers the characteristic smoky tone.
Design & Brand Appearance
The distillery combines historic stone architecture with modern staging. Visitors enjoy the ambience of the restored farm and the view of the ruins of Caisteal Camus - authentic, inspiring, typically Skye.
Variety & highlights
- Legacy Series Ch. 1 - 2017: First bottling with around 16 ppm smoke, fruity base note, limited edition.
- Legacy Series Ch. 2 - Allt Gleann: Fuller phenolic content, salty sea notes and a deeper peat character.
- Legacy Series Ch. 3 & 4: Continued with "Cnoc Na Mòine" and "Sound of Sleat", further limited editions with increasing maturity.
- Journeyman's Series: Experimental cask editions from distillery trainees - high creativity, great variety.
Sustainability & community
Torabhaig promotes local talent: nine employees, including local career changers and apprentices, distil on site. The Torabhaig "Peat Elite" club is also broadly based for fans and supporters.
Awards & reputation
The first two Legacy bottlings received much praise for their elegant smoky balance and the "Skye-typical sea breeze" in the taste - a successful addition to the Hebridean distilleries.
Conclusion
Torabhaig is an ambitious, modern whisky project with a clear focus on stylish smokiness and regional character. Limited legacy editions mark the beginning of an exciting line - now available exclusively from delicando for explorers and purists.