Collection: Islay

Q: Active distilleries on Islay

Ardbeg (1815, South): Extremely smoky, peaty, with citrus notesLaphroaig (1815, South): Medicinal, iodine-rich, salty and peatyLagavulin (1816, south): Smoky, deep, with notes of sherry and spicesBowmore (1779, centre): Oldest Islay distillery, balanced between smoke and sweetnessBruichladdich (1881, West): Innovative, organic approach, ranging from unpeated to heavily peatedBunnahabhain (1881, North): Mild, nutty, often unpeated, maritimeCaol Ila (1846, North-East): Smoky, slightly sweet, maritimeKilchoman (2005, West): Farm distillery, fresh smoke & citrusArdnahoe (2018, North-East): The youngest distillery, classic peaty profile

Q: Well-known bottlings & recommendations

For beginners: Bunnahabhain 12, Bowmore 15 – mild to slightly smokyFor the more experienced: Ardbeg Uigeadail, Lagavulin 16 – powerful & complexFor the curious: Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Kilchoman Machir Bay – intense & exciting

The Islay Islands, often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’, are renowned for their distinctive, peaty whiskies. Islay Scotch Whisky is synonymous with intense aromas, profound complexity and unrivalled quality. Smoke, peat & sea: Islay Scotch Whisky embodies intense character and centuries-old distilling expertise. Discover genuine island classics at delicando now!

3 Miniaturen. Ein Erlebnis.

Whisky Tasting-Set

Drei Charaktere im Set – entdecken Sie Ihren Favoriten ohne ganze Flasche.
Nur bei delicando erhältlich.

Chivas Brothers

Royal Salute 21 Years Old THE SIGNATURE BLEND 40% Vol. 0,02l

4,50 €

(225,00 €l)

Edradour Whisky

Edradour 10 Years Old 200 Years Distillery Edition 46% Vol. 0,02l

3,50 €

(175,00 €l)

The Glen Deveron

The Deveron 12 Years Old Highland Single Malt 40% Vol. 0,02l

3,60 €

(180,00 €l)

Popular Brands

Chivas Brothers

Jack Daniel's

Jameson Whiskey

Johnnie Walker

Lagavulin

Maker's Mark

Tullamore Dew

Active distilleries on Islay

Ardbeg (1815, South): Extremely smoky, peaty, with citrus notes
Laphroaig (1815, South): Medicinal, iodine-rich, salty and peaty
Lagavulin (1816, south): Smoky, deep, with notes of sherry and spices
Bowmore (1779, centre): Oldest Islay distillery, balanced between smoke and sweetness
Bruichladdich (1881, West): Innovative, organic approach, ranging from unpeated to heavily peated
Bunnahabhain (1881, North): Mild, nutty, often unpeated, maritime
Caol Ila (1846, North-East): Smoky, slightly sweet, maritime
Kilchoman (2005, West): Farm distillery, fresh smoke & citrus
Ardnahoe (2018, North-East): The youngest distillery, classic peaty profile

Well-known bottlings & recommendations

For beginners: Bunnahabhain 12, Bowmore 15 – mild to slightly smoky
For the more experienced: Ardbeg Uigeadail, Lagavulin 16 – powerful & complex
For the curious: Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Kilchoman Machir Bay – intense & exciting

Special manufacturing processes

Many Islay whiskies are produced using traditional methods: the barley is dried over peat fires and the spirit is distilled slowly, usually in old copper stills. Sherry, bourbon or wine casks are often used for maturation. Many bottlings are unchill-filtered and uncoloured to preserve their natural character.

Unique flavour profiles

Islay whiskies offer an extraordinary range of flavours: from powerful and peaty to medicinal and iodine-rich, and from smooth and mossy to nutty. Typical aromas include smoke, peat, salt, seaweed and pepper, as well as sweet notes of vanilla and caramel. This diversity makes them exciting for connoisseurs and adventurous newcomers alike.

The History of Whisky Production on Islay

The history dates back to the 18th century, when distilling on Islay was mainly carried out illegally. It was not until the 19th century that legal whisky production became established, with Bowmore (1779) being the oldest official distillery. This long tradition and an understanding of the harsh conditions continue to shape the character of Islay whiskies to this day.

Differences between the distilleries

The southern distilleries (Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Lagavulin) are known for their robust, intensely smoky whiskies with a medicinal note. Centrally located distilleries such as Bowmore offer balanced flavours, whilst those further north and west (e.g. Bunnahabhain, Bruichladdich) often have milder or more experimental profiles.

What makes Islay Scotch whisky special?

Islay Scotch Whisky is produced on the island of the same name off the west coast of Scotland and is renowned for its intense peaty and smoky notes. The use of local peat to malt the barley, together with the mineral-rich water and the salty sea air, shape the distinctive character of these whiskies. In particular, the proximity to the sea gives rise to pronounced maritime aromas that are typical of Islay.

Buying whisky made easy

In our delicando online shop, you’ll find a carefully curated collection of Islay whiskies. With detailed descriptions, customer reviews, tasting notes and attractive offers, choosing the right one is easy – and we offer fast and secure delivery.

Whisky tasting at home

Discover the diversity of Islay whiskies with our tasting sets. Perfect for comparing different distilleries or as a gift idea – all from the comfort of your own home.

Conclusion

Islay Scotch whisky is synonymous with smoky depth, artisanal tradition and exceptional flavours. Whether salty, sweet, peaty or maritime – discover authentic Islay whiskies from all active distilleries at delicando and order a glass of genuine character.

Questions and Answers

If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to contact our customer service & we will get back to you as soon as possible!

Is Islay Scotch whisky a suitable gift?

Absolutely! Islay Scotch whisky makes an excellent gift for connoisseurs and lovers of fine spirits. Many of our whiskies come in attractive gift packaging.

Can you drink Islay Scotch whisky neat?

Yes, Islay Scotch whisky can be enjoyed both neat and in cocktails. Many connoisseurs prefer to drink it neat or with a drop of water to bring out its intense flavours.

What sets Islay Scotch whisky apart from other Scottish whiskies?

Islay Scotch whisky is renowned for its intense peaty and smoky flavours. Compared to the lighter, fruitier whiskies from other regions, Islay whiskies are often bolder and have a maritime character.

Which glasses are best for whisky?

Nosing glasses are best suited for whisky tastings, as they bring out the aromas to their fullest. Tumbler glasses are also popular for enjoying whisky at home.

How long should Islay Scotch whisky be aged?

Islay Scotch whisky must be aged in oak casks for at least three years to be classified as Scotch. However, many high-quality whiskies are aged for considerably longer to develop more complex flavour profiles.

How is Islay Scotch whisky made?

Islay Scotch whisky is traditionally made from malted barley and aged for at least three years in oak casks. It is distilled in copper pot stills, and the water used in the production process often flows through peaty soil, which gives the whisky its characteristic flavours.