Abhainn Dearg Distillery
History of Abhainn Dearg Distillery
The Isle of Lewis has a long, though interrupted, history of whisky production. The last legal distillery, the Shoeburn Distillery, closed its doors around 1840. For over 160 years, Lewis relied on imports or illicit production to quench its thirst for the golden dram. This all changed in 2008 when Mark Tayburn, a native of the Isle of Lewis, founded the Abhainn Dearg Distillery. Abhainn Dearg translates to “Red River” in Gaelic, a name inspired by a local legend of a Viking skirmish.
Building on Tradition with Innovation
Tayburn constructed the distillery on the west coast of Lewis, utilizing a former salmon hatchery. Interestingly, some of the salmon pens are still in use! The still house, however, is a new build featuring an unconventional design.
Inspired by old illicit stills found on the island, the Abhainn Dearg stills boast tilted still heads. The water source for their whisky comes from nearby Loch Raonasgail, feeding the distillery through the very Abhainn Dearg (Red River) itself.
First Steps and Future Promise
Production began in September 2008, and by 2010, Abhainn Dearg released their first spirit, a young malt matured in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. This new make received mixed reviews, perhaps unsurprising for such a young spirit.
Their first official single malt bottling came in 2011, a three-year-old expression named “Spirit of Lewis.” This marked a significant occasion, not just for the distillery, but for the entire Isle of Lewis, as it was the first legal single malt produced there in over 160 years.
As Abhainn Dearg’s whisky continues to mature, whisky lovers eagerly await future releases. With its unique location, unconventional stills, and dedication to reviving the Hebridean whisky tradition, Abhainn Dearg promises to be a name to watch in the world of Scotch whisky.
Abhainn Dearg Distillery Tour Information and Experience
As of now, Abhainn Dearg Distillery is not offering guided tours. However, the distillery shop remains open to visitors, where you can still enjoy a tasting of their unique whiskies.
What To Do Nearby Abhainn Dearg Distillery
Uig Sands (1.2 miles): This beautiful beach boasts a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for a walk or picnic. You might even be lucky enough to spot some surfers or seals basking in the sun.
The North Harris Eagle Observatory (4.9 miles): If you’re a birdwatcher, a trip to the North Harris Eagle Observatory is a must. Here, you can observe majestic golden eagles soaring through the skies and learn about their vital role in the island’s ecosystem.
Uig Museum (3.5 miles): Delve into the rich history and culture of the Isle of Lewis at the Uig Museum. This small museum houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of the island’s inhabitants, from the earliest settlers to the modern day.
Calanais Standing Stones (11.1 miles): Step back in time and explore the mysterious Calanais Standing Stones, also known as the “Lewis Stones.” This prehistoric monument is older than Stonehenge and is shrouded in fascinating myths and legends.
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village (12.7 miles): Take a trip back in time and experience traditional Hebridean life at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Here you can explore a collection of restored blackhouses, turf-roofed dwellings that were once common on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Abhainn Dearg Distillery?
Uig Sands Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1 Carnish, Isle of Lewis HS2 9EX, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1851 672334.
O Ver Borough: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 44-46 Borough High St, London SE1 1XW, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 20 7378 8882.
Flavour: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Flavour, Isle of Lewis HS2 9HP, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1851 830742.
What hotels are near Abhainn Dearg Distillery?
Beach Bay Cottage: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Timsgarry, Isle of Lewis HS2 9JD, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1851 672234.
Uig Lodge: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Isle of Lewis HS2 9ET, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1851 672396.
SEAcroft – Licensed B&B serving evening meals on the Isle of Lewis: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 17a Aird Uig, Isle of Lewis HS2 9JA, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1851 672388.