Bunnahabhain Distillery, Islay
Bunnahabhain Distillery on Islay is one of the nine famous whisky distilleries on Islay and was established in 1881. Deeply rooted in heritage, this whisky is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and sherried qualities. Additionally, Bunnahabhain whisky is also known for being unpeated, unlike its contemporaries on the island.
A highly crafted whisky
Bunnahabhain prides itself on its craftsmanship in its whisky making. Being an old distillery, it has many years of experience and expertise behind it, bringing vast knowledge to the process. Every stage of the process (mashing, fermentation, distillation and maturation) is meticulously directed. And being unpeated, Bunnhabbhain describes it as ‘a unique and refreshing alternative’ that ‘allows the natural flavours of their ingredients to shine through’. And it is this that makes Bunnahabhain whisky distinctive. Thus setting it apart from the other Islay distilleries while remaining a firm favourite with the whisky connoisseurs.
Book Your StayWhisky Tours and Tastings at Bunnahabhain
If you want to experience all things Bunnahabhain, then head to their distillery and take part in one of their tours or tasting experiences. Here you have a choice of packages to choose from, with something to suit everyone’s needs. The Warehouse 9 Tasting Experience is one of their most sought-after, where you taste whisky directly from the cask. Then there is the Visitor Centre Tastings, where you can sip on this magical spirit, all while taking in the stunning views across the Sound of Islay. And if you want to learn about the production process, you can embark on the Production Tour. This Bunnahabhain whisky distillery tour guides you around Bunnahabhain Distillery, seeing all the stages involved, while learning all about its history.
Fèis ìle at Bunnahabhain
Every year Fèis ìle hits the island of Islay in the month of May. And what a festival this is! Bunnahabhain opens its doors and gets submerged in all the festivities. After all, it is a music and whisky festival! Whisky and music fans flock to the island for a week of fun-filled festivities. A range of tastings, tours, music and much more! So go on and get involved. Visit Bunnahabhain during the Fèis ìle festival and get see what it is all about.
Looking for Islay Accommodation?
If you are looking for somewhere to stay to base yourself while you explore our Islay whisky, then we offer a delightful range of accommodation. Islay Cottages has Kilchoman Cottages and Kilchoman House. All our accommodation is self-catering and in superb locations. Book your stay today or contact us here for more information. And get into the whisky spirit!
Book Your StayEverything was to a good standard, the beds were comfortable and the wi-fi connection was more than adequate for such a remote location (we didn’t use the TV/DVD). The living room and kitchen area is perfect for relaxing in the evenings, and you’ll be amazed at the quiet ! If your idea of the perfect holiday is getting out into the wilds and exploring miles of unspoilt beauty, this is the place for you. I am certain it is popular with walkers, but you can also do many exciting trips by car (which you’ll need anyway to get around !). Some of the roads do get a bit funky in places, and it’s largely single track with passing places, but you soon get used to this, and the courtesy between drivers is generally a joy to experience.
The Kilchoman cottages are near three absolutely stunning beaches, all within 4/5 miles: Machir Bay, Saligo Bay and Sanaigmore, it was impossible to choose between them, but we visited each one at least twice. Perhaps the most scenic beaches we’ve ever seen, with beautiful rock formations, white sand and totally unspoilt (and indeed generally deserted !)
There’s also the possibility to take a day trip over to the nearby island of Jura, the famous `paps’ (mountains) add a stunning back drop to so many places on Islay. It is a photographer’s dream. Life is simpler here, and in many ways it had not changed at all for me since 1972 ! A lifetime dream fulfilled to come back here, and I wasn’t disappointed ! We were very very lucky with the weather, which does help, and on a good day I wouldn’t hesitate to call it paradise.
Handy hints: Take plenty of basic provisions with you, but the Co-op in Bowmore is up to modern standards for most of your needs, we only needed a couple of trips there to restock in two weeks. If you’re big on nightlife and bustle, give it a miss…but if you love nature, beauty and fresh air….it can’t be beaten.
