Islay – a windy Monday

Ardbeg – used barrels and part of the distillery by the sea shore 

The most easterly of the southern distilleries 

We spent yesterday exploring the southern part of Islay making a point of visiting all three of the famous distilleries just to the east of Port Ellen: from west to east Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. The three distilleries are in close proximity – probably no more than two miles separating the most westerly – Laphroaig – from Arbeg the most easterly.  

We had planned to get in plenty of cycling but the high and blustery winds have so far proved to be a discouragement as we don't fancy being blown across the road. Hopefully it will calm down soon.....

 

Laphroaig Distillery

 Laphroaig tasting note 

Sea weed close to the sea shore – the essence of Laphroaig?

 Lagavulin – one of Diageo's Classic Malts 

(above and below)

Ardbeg – well set up to receive visitors

Ornamental still

An 'illustration' of the closure of the Port Ellen distillery 
(closed in 1993)

The much lamented closed Port Ellen distillery
now a maltings for Diageo
Bottles are increasingly rare –  the Spar whisky shop 
in Bowmore has a bottle for over £2000.
 

 

Still rough water across Loch Indaal

after Sunday's storm
looking across from Bowmore to Bruichladdich  

The Bowmore Distillery 

Bruichladdich  

(passed by on Sunday) 

 

Islay: house with a view and a wild Sunday

 Yesterday: the view from our rented cottage on the edge of Bowmore 

looking across Loch Indall

(above and below)

 Towards Bowmore harbour

(above and below)

Sunday 7th August – as forecast some wild and vile weather today looking across Loch Indall. A horrible day for the 100-mile Ride of the Falling Rain today – an event living up to its name!. Wonder how many brave cyclists completed the ride in the strong wind and intermittent driving rain? 

 Today's view across Loch Indall

 

 Bruichladdich Distillery through the murk

early Sunday afternoon 

(above and below)