Port Ellen Distillery

Founded in 1825 by Alexander K. Mackay, the historic Port Ellen Distillery was located on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay in Port Ellen, within Scotland’s renowned Islay whisky region. As a dedicated malt whisky distillery, Port Ellen played a pivotal role in Scotland’s whisky heritage until its closure in 1983. Notably, during the winter of 1823-24, James Fox tested his newly designed spirit safe at Port Ellen, making it the first Scottish distillery to install this essential security feature under the Excise Act of 1823. Although the distillery was closed and the site later utilised by Port Ellen Drum Maltings, it proudly reopened on March 19, 2024, revitalizing its storied legacy with modern craftsmanship while honoring its rich heritage. Today, Port Ellen single malt whisky continues to be highly prized, with official releases like the Port Ellen Annual Release and exclusive independent bottlings from Hunter Laing & Co. celebrating its enduring legacy. These rare whiskies are cherished by whisky enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, reaffirming Port Ellen Distillery as a cornerstone of Scottish malt whisky excellence