Islay whisky news: October 2026

Laggan Bay, built by Ian Macleod Distillers with the Islay Boys at Glenegedale beside Islay Airport, filled its first cask on 2 April 2026. It is now one of Islay's working distilleries. Its first single malt can't legally be called Scotch whisky until the spirit has spent at least three years in cask, so it isn't expected before 2029. Read the Laggan Bay profile.

Elixir Distillers' Portintruan, between Port Ellen and Lagavulin, is readying to open, with its own floor maltings and direct-fired stills. No first-spirit date has been confirmed yet. What we know so far.

CalMac's summer timetable on the Kennacraig–Islay route ran until 18 October 2026, so winter sailings now apply. Port Ellen's harbour is being upgraded, and while that work continues sailings may use Port Askaig only. Check the CalMac route notice or read our guide to getting to Islay.

Some distilleries run fewer tours, or shorter ones, in the off-season. Check current formats on our tour comparison page and confirm when you book.

The Islay Festival of Music and Malt returns from 28 May to 6 June 2027. Ferries and places to stay book up early, so it's worth planning now. Fèis Ìle 2027 guide.