Collection: 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

• 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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.