Port Ellen Whisky Distillery: A Legendary Revival
As I stepped into the newly refurbished Port Ellen distillery on the Isle of Islay, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and nostalgia. This iconic distillery, which had been silent for 41 years, has finally reopened its doors, and I was honored to be one of the first to witness its rebirth.
A New Era for Port Ellen
The distillery’s rich history dates back to 1825, when it was primarily a workhorse producer that made its distinctive, smoky whisky for blending. After closing in 1983, Port Ellen expressions became highly sought after by aficionados and collectors for their character and rarity. In 2017, Diageo announced its revival, and now, the wait is finally over.
“Port Ellen will be defined as a distillery that will push boundaries. Each element of the production process allows us to innovate from day one.” - Aimée Morrison, Master Blender
The New Facility
The new Port Ellen distillery is a marvel of modern design, with a gleaming transparent glass stillhouse that offers breathtaking views of Islay’s stunning south coast. The facility is built with innovation and experimentation in mind, featuring a retractable stillhouse roof for efficient maintenance and repairs. The entire distillery is designed to be carbon neutral, with energy drawn from renewable sources, including liquid biofuel.
The Spirit of Innovation
The distillery’s master distiller, Ali McDonald, explained that the new facility will allow them to explore the many facets of Port Ellen’s characteristically smoky flavor profile. The distillery will produce two types of whisky: one using traditional methods and another using more experimental techniques. The innovative Ten Part Spirit Safe will enable the distillers to divide the run into 10 parts, accessing previously unexplored flavors and characters.
A Pioneering Heritage
Port Ellen is the first distillery to export whisky to North America as early as 1848, carrying on its pioneering heritage at the new facility. Legend has it that it was the first distillery in Scotland to house a “spirit safe,” a glass and metal device used to analyze the distillate as it leaves the still.
A New Chapter
As I walked through the distillery, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the future of Port Ellen. With its innovative spirit, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to pushing boundaries, this legendary distillery is poised to make its mark on the world of whisky once again.
The newly refurbished Port Ellen distillery
The gleaming transparent glass stillhouse
The innovative Ten Part Spirit Safe
Ali McDonald, Master Distiller, explains the new facility’s innovative features
Aimée Morrison, Master Blender, discusses the distillery’s commitment to innovation
A bottle of Port Ellen whisky, a true gem for collectors and enthusiasts
