Port Ellen

Port Ellen is a legendary Islay distillery that, despite closing in 1983, remains highly revered for the rarity and exceptional quality of its remaining stock. Originally founded in 1825, the distillery experienced multiple closures and revivals before becoming a key supplier of single malt for blended whiskies under Diageo in the latter half of the 20th century. Port Ellen’s character is marked by moderate peat, gentle smoke, mineral notes, and maritime influence—offering a more refined and delicate expression compared to its Islay counterparts.

Though production ceased decades ago, Port Ellen’s remaining expressions continue to fetch extraordinary prices at auctions, treasured by collectors worldwide. In 2020, Diageo announced plans to revive the distillery with a new state-of-the-art facility that blends traditional character with experimental distilling techniques, signaling a bold return to the whisky world. Port Ellen stands as both a preserved piece of history and a beacon for the future of innovation in Scotch whisky.