The best Islay whiskies

Islay whiskies hold a special place in my heart. Islay itself is unique, almost spiritual. Many whisky lovers will make a pilgrimage to where some of the best whiskies in the world are created.

Islay whiskies are known for their use of peat in whisky making. This lends a characteristic smokey profile. While the island itself leaves its mark on many of the whiskies with a saline minerality. There are currently nine distilleries on the small Island of Islay. These are: Ardnahoe, Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Lagavulin, and Laphroaig.

These are some of the best Islay whiskies, presented by independent bottlers. Choose your favourite, pour a dram, and close your eyes as you imagine the waves crashing against Islay's cliffs.