Port Ellen  Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Port Ellen is one of the most iconic names in Scotch whisky, a closed Islay distillery whose remaining stock has become some of the most collectible and valuable spirit in the world. Established in 1825 on the island’s south coast, Port Ellen operated intermittently throughout the 19th and 20th centuries before finally closing its doors in 1983 during the industry downturn of the early 1980s. In the decades since, its reputation has soared, and original bottlings are now considered liquid history.

A Historic Islay Distillery

Founded by Alexander Kerr Mackay and later developed by John Ramsay, Port Ellen was an early innovator in export markets, shipping whisky overseas long before it became common practice. Its prime location between Laphroaig and Lagavulin gave it access to the same pure water sources and Islay’s distinctive peat, while its own still design and production methods lent the spirit a unique character.

Following multiple periods of closure and revival, the distillery was rebuilt and modernised in the 1960s to supply heavily peated malt for blending. Despite producing excellent whisky, falling demand for smoky styles in the early 1980s led to its permanent closure.

What Makes Port Ellen Unique

The combination of long fermentation times, specific still shapes, and slow distillation created a spirit with both elegance and intensity, qualities that have made it legendary among collectors.

Bottlings and Rarity

After the distillery’s closure, owner Diageo held back stocks for limited releases. Since 2001, Port Ellen has appeared in the annual Special Releases series, with each edition drawn from the dwindling number of casks. Independent bottlers like Douglas Laing, Signatory Vintage, and Gordon & MacPhail have also released rare single casks, offering enthusiasts different perspectives on this elusive spirit.

Every Port Ellen bottling is finite, once the remaining maturing whisky is bottled, no more original spirit will be available. This scarcity is a major driver of its value and prestige.

The Revival

In 2017, Diageo announced plans to rebuild and reopen Port Ellen. The new distillery, currently under development, will aim to recreate the signature style while also exploring new whisky-making possibilities. However, it will be many years before new spirit reaches a comparable level of maturity to the original releases, ensuring the continued desirability of pre-closure bottlings.

Our Selection

Our Port Ellen collection includes official Diageo Special Releases, independent bottlings, and rare single cask expressions. These whiskies are highly sought after for their combination of history, craftsmanship, and flavour. Whether you’re a seasoned Islay enthusiast or a collector searching for a centrepiece bottle, Port Ellen offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to taste a whisky that has passed into legend.