Bunnahabhain Distillery

Bunnahabhain Distillery stands on the north-eastern shore of Islay, an island off Scotland’s west coast. Founded in 1881 near Port Askaig, it was built to serve workers who came to make whisky. The village of Bunnahabhain grew up around the distillery, giving the place its name. Islay itself is known for its peaty single malts, yet Bunnahabhain produces one of the island’s milder whiskies. The distillery has changed hands several times, first under the Islay Distillery Company, then Highland Distilleries in 1887. Electric light reached Islay for the first time in 1894 thanks to Bunnahabhain’s power supply. The distillery’s history includes a closure in 1981 followed by a reopening three years later. A road was built in 1960, ending reliance on ship deliveries which had lasted until 1993. After being run by Burn Stewart from 2003, it joined Distell and later Heineken N.V. in 2014. Nine distilleries remain active on Islay today, yet Bunnahabhain remains distinct for its lighter style. Scottish Gaelic speakers still call it Taigh-staile Bun na h-Abhainne, meaning Mouth of the River. Managers such as James Falconer and John MacLellan shaped its reputation over the decades. Visitors find a working distillery where whisky is still made in the traditional way. The core range includes a 12-year-old, an 18-year-old, and older expressions up to 40 years. Limited editions like Stiuireadair and Toiteach A Dhà add variety to the shelves. Independent bottlers have also released small batches under their own labels. The site sits beside the sea, with views across the water to neighbouring shores. A tour reveals copper stills, warehouses, and the quiet village that once housed its workforce. The air carries the scent of malt and the faint tang of the nearby river.