Established in 2015, The Isle of Harris Distillery is known by many as ‘The Social Distillery’, an ethos which embraces the generous character of the island and the people who live there. Although very much a working distillery, the doors are open six days a week, to connect with all those who want to learn more about the distillery’s story. A peat fire burns at the heart of the building providing a warm Outer Hebridean welcome to all who visit.
There is a deep belief that the island’s natural assets can be harnessed to address the acute economic problems through ambitious projects like the distillery, helping highlight the special place that is the Isle of Harris and its qualities to the attention of a wider audience.
Every drop of Isle of Harris Gin is distilled in Tarbert in a small copper gin still, known affectionately as ‘The Dottach’, named after a similarly fiery and feisty local woman. The Dottach imbues the island spirit with the complex delights of 9 carefully chosen botanicals as the distillery seeks to capture the elemental nature of the island, particularly the maritime influences of the surrounding seas. Of all the botanicals, it is the hand-harvested sugar kelp which is key to the subtle coastal notes that mark out the spirit.
Key Botanical(s): Sugar Kelp, Bitter Orange Peel, Cubebs
Gin Style: London Dry
Strength: 45% vol
Goes great with: A wedge of red grapefruit, tonic and ice.
Made by hand in small batches, this limited edition Isle of Harris Gin Cèilidh bottle is a celebration of craft and tradition. Containing 350ml of signature Isle of Harris Gin, each bottle is completely unique. From the subtle differences in shape to the final blue glaze, which represents the island’s seas and sky, every bottle is a one-off. Created by artist and potter Rupert Blamire, this special edition bottle is dedicated to the tradition of the Harris cèilidh. Although most of us associate cèilidhs with traditional Scottish dancing and bands, in Harris’ native Gaelic, the word simply means ‘a visit’. The tradition has lived on in the Harris community for generations. Today in 2020, the words “thigibh a chèilidh!” (“come round for a visit!) are still often heard on the island. There’s no need to dress up, just bring yourself and maybe a bottle and let the events of the evening take care of themselves.
Key Botanical(s): Sugar Kelp, Bitter Orange Peel, Cubebs
Gin Style: London Dry
Strength: 45% vol
Goes great with: A wedge of red grapefruit, tonic and ice.
Located on the harbour front of Tarbert, a few hundred yards from where the ferry docks, means you can’t miss the opportunity to spot and visit the Isle of Harris Distillery. The Distillery itself is quite modest in size but full of character and people! For a small, relatively remote island off Scotland’s west coast, the Distillery team have done an amazing job of creating a visitor experience that is honest, insightful and true to the island’s people and traditions. Tours take place daily, with exception of Sundays when the Distillery is closed. The Distillery also houses a Distillery shop and canteen, where you can experience fresh local food and drink, and even sample craft beers, Isle of Harris G&Ts and Martinis.
Tour: Yes
Cafe: Yes
Bar: Yes
Shop: Yes
Booking: Book a tour by calling +44 (0)1859 502212
You can learn more about the maker by clicking the links below.
