North Over South: Top Reasons to Venture to Bunnahabhain Whisky Distillery on Islay's Majestic Northern Coast

North Over South: Top Reasons to Venture to Bunnahabhain Whisky Distillery on Islay's Majestic Northern Coast

01 Aug, 2023

This isn't just any journey; it's a pilgrimage to the northern coast of Islay, home to the Bunnahabhain Whisky Distillery. If you're a whisky enthusiast, you might be familiar with the southern distilleries of Islay, known for their characteristic peaty whiskies.

But today, we're venturing off the beaten path to the north, to the less-frequented but equally fascinating Bunnahabhain. With its rich history, distinctive production process, and breathtaking surroundings, this journey to the north is an adventure worth embarking upon. In this article, we'll explore the top reasons to make Bunnahabhain your next whisky distillery destination.

So pour yourself a dram, settle in, and let's journey together to the enchanting north of Islay.

1. Scenic Beauty

The North of Islay is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The journey to Bunnahabhain takes you through some of the island's most stunning landscapes. Overlooking the Sound of Islay, Bunnahabhain offers dramatic views that are well worth the trip.

2. Unpeated Whisky

While Islay is famous for its peaty whiskies, Bunnahabhain stands out as it traditionally makes unpeated or lightly peated whisky.

This provides an excellent opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to explore the diverse range of flavours that Islay whiskies can offer.

3. Unique Production Process

Bunnahabhain follows a unique production process, with its taller than usual stills resulting in a lighter spirit. Its wort is clear rather than cloudy, and it uses yeast that's different from other distilleries on the island.

All this results in a distinctive whisky that's rich and complex, with a surprisingly delicate character.

4. Exclusivity

Being off the beaten path, Bunnahabhain offers a quieter, more intimate experience compared to some of the more frequented distilleries in the South of Islay.

This can allow for more in-depth tours, tastings, and the chance to truly engage with the whisky-making process.

5. Rich History

Established in 1881, Bunnahabhain has a rich history and has maintained many of its traditional whisky-making methods. A visit here offers a deep dive into the heritage of Scotch whisky production.

6. Warehouse 9 Tastings

Bunnahabhain offers a unique tasting experience in Warehouse 9, where you can sample the finest whiskies straight from the cask, a must-do for any whisky enthusiast.

7. The Distillery Shop

Bunnahabhain's distillery shop stocks distillery-exclusive bottles that you won't find anywhere else. It's a perfect chance to pick up a unique memento of your visit.

8. Wildlife

The region around Bunnahabhain is rich in wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot seals basking on the shore and eagles soaring overhead. It's a paradise for nature lovers!

A trip to Bunnahabhain isn’t just about the whisky – it's about the journey, the scenery, the peace and tranquillity, and the feeling of being at one with nature. And of course, it’s about enjoying some of the finest Single Malt whisky in the world!

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