The plan for founders Michael and Katie Morrison, with Michael being born and bread on the island, was always to bring distillation back to the island. Originally distilled outside of Scotland using carrageen seaweed foraged from the Isle of Barra, in May 2019, the dream of establishing the island’s first legal distillery became a reality when the business was granted a full distilling licence and bonded warehouse facilities.
Proud of the island, the history and the heritage, the Isle of Barra Distillers Co. hope that the distillery will create a new legacy for the island. Depopulation has been a constant threat to most of the island communities across Scotland but the team hope that their fearless island spirt and new distillery will lead to further employment for residents on the island.
Distilled using seventeen botanicals including locally island foraged Carrageen, a type of red algae that grows on the shores and shallow waters surrounding the island. This provides a flavour profile that is intended to roll across the tongue like the mighty Atlantic surf breaking on Barra shores. A balance of floral and herbal notes with juniper, citrus and slight salt creates a refreshing and clean flavour with a warm spice on the finish. The distillery launched their new custom bottle in November 2022, produced from 78% recycled glass. It’s also 17% lighter, plastic free and entirely recyclable.
Key Botanical(s): Juniper, Carrageen
Gin Style: London Dry
Strength: 46% vol
Goes great with: A wedge of lemon, a sprig of rosemary, tonic and ice.
Learn more about Isle of Barra Distillers Co. by visiting the links below.
