Ian Macleod Distillers, in collaboration with The Islay Boys, has announced the construction of a new whisky distillery named Laggan Bay on the famous whisky-producing island of Islay. This new distillery will be the twelfth on the island, renowned for its distinctive peaty whiskies. The project, which has been in the planning stages since 2022, is set to be completed by 2025.
A New Addition to Islay’s Whisky Heritage
Laggan Bay distillery will join the ranks of other renowned Islay distilleries such as Ardbeg, Bowmore, Laphroaig, and the recently reopened Port Ellen. The partnership between Ian Macleod Distillers and The Islay Boys, led by Mackay Smith and Donald MacKenzie, is creating quite a buzz among whisky enthusiasts. Leonard Russell, Managing Director of Ian Macleod Distillers, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the potential to introduce a brand-new Islay single malt before the decade's end.
Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Initiatives
A standout feature of the Laggan Bay distillery is its strong commitment to sustainability. The distillery will incorporate wetlands to manage liquid waste, providing a sanctuary for local wildlife. This approach mirrors the sustainable practices of Ian Macleod’s Glengoyne distillery, which received a Green Tourism Gold Award in 2023 for its innovative waste management system.
In addition to wetlands, Laggan Bay is exploring renewable energy options in partnership with the Islay Energy Trust and Scottish Power. The distillery is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint by utilizing green flame energy, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility.
Progress and Future Plans
Construction of the Laggan Bay distillery is well underway, with the first spirit expected to flow from its handmade copper pot stills in 2025. Although many details are still under wraps, the distillery promises to be a significant addition to Ian Macleod’s impressive portfolio, which includes well-known brands like Glengoyne, Tamdhu, and Edinburgh Gin. The re-opening of Rosebank in the Scottish Lowlands this summer, after a meticulous four-year restoration, further underscores the company’s dedication to quality and heritage.
Engage with Laggan Bay at Fèis Ìle 2024
Whisky fans eager to learn more about Laggan Bay can look forward to additional details being released later this year. Those attending Fèis Ìle 2024, the island's annual whisky and music festival, can visit The Islay Boys' brewery, Islay Ales at Glenegedale, which is situated opposite the distillery site. This event will offer a unique opportunity to engage with the project and witness the progress firsthand.
Conclusion
The Laggan Bay distillery represents an exciting development in the world of whisky, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices. As it joins the prestigious lineup of Islay distilleries, Laggan Bay is set to make a significant impact on the whisky landscape, promising new and unique single malt offerings for enthusiasts around the globe.
About Ian Macleod Distillers
Ian Macleod Distillers is a prominent family-owned Scottish spirits company, known for its extensive portfolio of high-quality whiskies and other spirits. Established in 1933 by Leonard Russell Sr., the company has grown significantly over the decades, acquiring and revitalizing several well-respected whisky brands and distilleries. Today, Ian Macleod Distillers is one of the largest and most respected independent distillers and bottlers in Scotland.
One of the company's flagship brands is Glengoyne, a Highland single malt whisky distillery renowned for its unpeated malt and slow distillation process, which results in a rich, smooth, and complex whisky. Located near Glasgow, Glengoyne Distillery has been producing whisky since 1833 and is celebrated for its traditional methods and commitment to quality.
Another notable acquisition by Ian Macleod Distillers is Tamdhu Distillery, a Speyside distillery known for its sherried single malt whiskies. Tamdhu, established in 1897, is dedicated to using exclusively sherry oak casks for maturation, which imparts distinctive rich and fruity flavors to its whiskies. This commitment to sherry cask maturation sets Tamdhu apart in the competitive Speyside region.
In addition to these iconic distilleries, Ian Macleod Distillers produces and markets several other whisky brands, including Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky, Smokehead Islay Single Malt, and the Six Isles, a unique blended malt made from whiskies from six different Scottish islands. The company also offers a range of other spirits, such as gins and rums, expanding its reach beyond whisky enthusiasts.
Ian Macleod Distillers is also known for its independent bottling operations, offering a selection of single cask and limited-edition whiskies under the "Chieftain's" and "As We Get It" labels. These independent bottlings allow whisky aficionados to experience unique and rare expressions from various distilleries, often presented at cask strength and without chill-filtration.
Throughout its history, Ian Macleod Distillers has maintained a commitment to traditional craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. The company continues to invest in its distilleries and brands, ensuring that its legacy of producing exceptional spirits endures for future generations. With a rich heritage and a diverse portfolio, Ian Macleod Distillers remains a key player in the global spirits industry, revered by both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
