Isle of Raasay Distillery Logo

Isle of Raasay Distillery

Region
  • Scotland
Awards
  • Newcomer of the Year 2021 at the Scottish Whisky Awards, World Whisky Awards 2022 – Category Winner, Silver Medal at the Scotch Whisky Masters 2021
Website
  • https://raasaydistillery.com/
Phone Number
  • +441478470178
Address
  • Borodale House Isle of Raasay, Kyle IV40 8PB, United Kingdom

Modern and traditional architecture blend under blue sky.

History of Isle of Raasay Distillery

 

Founding and Vision

Isle of Raasay Distillery’s journey began in 2013 when co-founders Bill Dobbie and Alasdair Day met and formed R&B Distillers.

United by the goal of creating Scotland’s leading artisanal distillery, they focused on local production, provenance, and quality, while embracing innovative approaches.

Their vision was to produce exceptional whisky and handcrafted Hebridean gin that reflected the unique style and character of Raasay.

Establishment and Development

By 2015, Dobbie and Day identified the Isle of Raasay as the ideal location for crafting the perfect dram. They received planning permission in 2016 to transform the nineteenth-century Borodale House into a state-of-the-art distillery, visitor centre, and luxury accommodation.

This marked a significant step in revitalizing Raasay’s distilling heritage and contributing to the local economy.

Distillery’s Unique Approach

The Isle of Raasay Distillery was designed from scratch with the aim of creating whiskies that develop elegance, complexity, and depth early in the maturation process.

Their handcrafted Hebridean gin encapsulates Raasay’s impressive geological variety, embodying the essence of the island in every bottle. This innovative approach to distilling sets the distillery apart in the world of spirits.

Awards Won by Isle of Raasay Distillery

  • Newcomer of the Year 2021 at the Scottish Whisky Awards: This award recognizes the distillery’s impact as a new entrant in the whisky industry​​.
  • World Whisky Awards 2022 – Category Winner: The distillery’s signature Isle of Raasay Single Malt won in the Small Batch Single Malt (No Age Statement) category, marking a significant achievement for their first full year with whisky​​.
  • Luxury Packaging Awards: Their distinctive whisky bottle design, which reflects the island’s natural beauty, was recognized in the Luxury Drinks Packaging category​​.
  • Silver Medal at the Scotch Whisky Masters 2021: The Isle of Raasay Single Malt was awarded a Silver Medal, acknowledging the quality of their flagship single malt whisky​​.
  • Gold Medal at the World Whiskies Awards 2019: The distillery’s Raasay While We Wait – 2018 Release, a Tuscan red wine-finished Highland single malt, won a Gold Medal, showcasing the distillery’s skill in creating unique and flavorful whiskies​​.
  • Brand Experience of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2020: This award recognized the distillery’s innovative approach to offering virtual tasting experiences during a year marked by social distancing​​.
  • Bronze Medal for the Isle of Raasay Gin at the International Spirits Challenge 2020: This award highlights the distillery’s proficiency not just in whisky, but also in gin production​​.

Isle of Raasay Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The Isle of Raasay Distillery offers a unique and in-depth tour experience that delves into the people, passion, and processes behind their distinctive Isle of Raasay Single Malt and Isle of Raasay Gin.

This tour is designed to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the distillery’s unique approach to spirit making.

Tasting Experience

The highlight of the tour is the tasting session held in a specially designed tasting room. Visitors have the opportunity to taste three Isle of Raasay spirits: the Signature Single Malt, the current Distillery Exclusive, and the Isle of Raasay Gin.

This tasting experience allows guests to appreciate the distinct flavors and craftsmanship of each spirit.

Pricing and Duration

  • Adults: The tour is priced at £20 for adults.
  • Children: A reduced rate of £5 is available for children aged 8 to 17 years.
  • Duration: The tour lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes, offering a concise yet immersive experience.

Flask & Barrel Review of Isle of Raasay Distillery

I recently had the chance to visit the Isle of Raasay Distillery, and let me tell you, it was pretty close to perfect. As a whiskey collector who’s been on more tours than I can count, I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries, but Raasay stands out.

First off, the setting is just stunning. Nestled on the Isle of Raasay, the journey there is part of the experience. It’s like stepping into a postcard, with breathtaking views that set the stage for what’s to come.

The tour itself was top-notch. It’s clear these folks aren’t just making whiskey; they’re crafting stories in a bottle. The guide was knowledgeable and passionate, walking us through the distillery’s history and the intricate process of whiskey-making. It wasn’t just informative; it was engaging and personal, which I really appreciated.

Now, the tasting part – that was the highlight for me. Their Signature Single Malt is something else. It’s got this unique character, a blend of traditional and modern flavors that’s hard to put into words. And the Isle of Raasay Gin was a pleasant surprise, adding a nice twist to the tour.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the tour felt a tad rushed. I could have spent all day soaking in the details and stories. And maybe a bit more variety in the tasting would’ve been the cherry on top.

Overall, I’m giving the Isle of Raasay Distillery a solid 4.7 out of 5. It’s a must-visit for any whiskey enthusiast. Trust me, you won’t just enjoy the spirits; you’ll fall in love with the whole experience.

What To Do Nearby Isle of Raasay Distillery

  • Brochel Castle: Discover the ruins of this historic castle, once the seat of the MacLeods of Raasay. Though now in disrepair, the castle and its surroundings offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
  • A Tour Around Clachan: Starting from the pier, this route takes you past the 19th-century farm steading and offers a blend of local shops and historical sites, including the Raasay Walled Garden and St. Moluag’s Chapel.
  • Hallaig Walk: A beautiful walk that takes you through the history of the island’s largest township before the Highland Clearances. It’s a path filled with natural beauty and historical significance, including Sorley MacLean’s cairn.
  • Inver Bay: A tranquil bay that can be reached by a 30-minute walk through an ancient forest. This secluded spot is known for its stunning views and historical royal visits.
  • Seaflower Skye Boat Trips: Based in Portree, these tours offer trips to Raasay and Rona, including seafood lunches and tastings of Raasay spirits.
  • Isle Of Skye Golf Club: Just a short distance from the ferry terminal, this seaside golf course offers beautiful views of the Isle of Raasay and the Red Cuillin on Skye.
  • Isle of Skye: Use Raasay as a base to explore the neighboring Isle of Skye, known for its scenic beauty and numerous attractions.
  • Dun Caan: Hike to the highest point on the island for breathtaking panoramic views. The path offers scenic views throughout and is rich in local flora and fauna.
  • Eilean Fladda: A small tidal island near Raasay, once a crofting community, now offering serene landscapes and tranquility.
  • Calum’s Road and Brochel Castle: Explore this impressive stretch of road built by one man and the ruins of Brochel Castle, offering insights into Raasay’s history and panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Isle of Raasay Distillery?

  • Restaurant Rosedale: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Beaumont Cres, Portree IV51 9DF, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441478613131. 
  • Dulse and Brose: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 13 Bosville Terrace, Portree IV51 9DG, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441478612846. 
  • The Big Grill Society: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Shore St, Applecross, Strathcarron IV54 8LR, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +447500510849.

What hotels are near Isle of Raasay Distillery?

  • Tongadale Hotel: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Wentworth St, Portree IV51 9EJ, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441478612115. 
  • Ullinish House: It has a rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Ullinish country lodge, Struan, Isle of Skye IV56 8FD, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +447592217110. 
  • Cuillin Hills Hotel: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Scorrybreac Rd, Portree IV51 9QU, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441478612003.