Islay's Newest Distillery
Founded in 2018 by Hunter Laing & Co., Ardnahoe represents a new chapter in Islay whisky making. Built on the northeast coast near Bunnahabhain, this modern distillery combines traditional Scottish craftsmanship with contemporary design and environmental consciousness.
The distillery name comes from Gaelic, meaning "height of the ford," referring to its elevated position overlooking the Sound of Islay. Hunter Laing, renowned independent bottlers for over 30 years, invested their expertise and passion into creating Islay's ninth operational distillery.
Ardnahoe's inaugural spirit was released in 2023, showcasing both peated and unpeated expressions. The distillery represents the new generation of Islay whisky making, respecting tradition while embracing innovation and sustainable practices.
Young but promising peated and unpeated single malts
The first official release from Ardnahoe, showcasing the distillery's potential with maritime influence and subtle peat smoke.
Limited release showcasing the distillery's unpeated style with coastal character and elegant fruit notes.
Exclusive single cask bottlings available at the distillery, showcasing different cask types and maturation experiments.
State-of-the-art equipment including a 10-tonne stainless steel full lauter mash tun and Douglas fir washbacks, combining efficiency with traditional character development.
Long fermentation periods in Douglas fir washbacks allow for complex flavor development, with fermentation times extending beyond 72 hours when conditions allow.
Two copper pot stills with unique shapes designed to create Ardnahoe's house style. The wash still features a ball-shaped bulge for reflux and character development.
On-site maturation in a combination of ex-bourbon barrels and sherry casks. The coastal location provides natural humidity and temperature variation.
Last updated: 2026-08-28
Step inside Ardnahoe's production area and experience a process committed to tradition. Learn about this 100% family-owned distillery, the production water from Islay's 'infinite loch', and see the island's only worm tubs and Scotland's longest lyne arms. The tour concludes in the tasting area with two 25ml drams to enjoy.
£15
Enjoy the full Spirit of Ardnahoe distillery tour followed by a cocktail tasting session. After exploring the production process and seeing the worm tubs and longest lyne arms in Scotland, relax with expertly crafted cocktails featuring Ardnahoe spirit.
£20
Enjoy the Spirit of Ardnahoe tour followed by an exclusive warehouse tasting in Warehouse No.1. Sample four individual casks of Ardnahoe Single Malt, available only through this warehouse experience. This comprehensive tour offers deep insight into both production and maturation.
£60
Choose from a range of tasting flights in the Ardnahoe tasting room with stunning views over the Sound of Islay. Options include Special Releases (£20), Worm Tub flight (£24), Islay Kinship flight (£110), and the Old & Rare flight (£260) featuring exceptional aged whiskies.
£20 - £260
Port Askaig
Isle of Islay
PA46 7RL
Mon-Fri: 10:00 - 16:00
Sat-Sun: 10:00 - 15:00
*Closed January-February
CalMac ferries from Kennacraig to Port Askaig (2 hours). Ardnahoe is 2 miles northeast of Port Askaig.
Free parking available. Follow signs from Port Askaig. The modern distillery building is visible from the road.
No regular bus service. Taxi from Port Askaig or arrange transport with other distillery visits.
2 miles southwest. The gentle spirit of Islay, perfect for comparison tastings.
Spectacular coastal views across to Jura. Wildlife watching and photography opportunities.
4 miles south. Islay's largest distillery offering contrasting heavily peated style.
Close to Port Askaig ferry terminal for day trips to the neighboring Isle of Jura.