Tobermory’s Ledaig 18 named Whisky of The Year

Tobermory Distillery’s Ledaig 18-Year-Old has been hailed ‘Whisky of the Year’ by The Whisky Exchange.

A wonderfully smoky island Single Malt, Ledaig 18 showcases sweet, floral aromas and balances them perfectly with a richness and warmth of sea salt and smoke. Aged 18 years, it’s a bold expression that offers notes of spicy black pepper, orange peel, and a hint of liquorice. 

This year’s shortlist included a mix of whiskies from the Highlands to the island, showcasing some bold flavours including Jura 18 Year Old, which won the runner up prize, Old Pulteney 15 Year Old and Oban 14 Year old. After an expert panel carried out a blind tasting, Ledaig 18 Year Old was the winner.

The award is the latest addition to Ledaig 18-Year-Old’s trophy cabinet, having previously won gold awards at the 2022 and 2021 World Whisky Awards, being named the Best Scotch Islands Single Malt.

 Brendan McCarron, Master Distiller at Tobermory Distillery said: “Ledaig is one of our more heavily peated, smoky whiskies that has a really distinctive flavour. Named after an area of land in which our distillery was founded in the 1790s, it’s one of Tobermory Distillery’s cult whiskies and an expression we’re very proud of. Ledaig 18 is true example of our Hebridean artistry and transports drinkers on a journey to Mull, showcasing the very best of the island that inspires every drop that comes from the distillery.

 “Intense and robust, it’s a rich whisky with sweet smoke and earthy notes. Created with expertise and a great deal of care, to have won such a fantastic accolade is a true reflection of the hard work that goes into producing each expression in the Tobermory portfolio.

 “We’re so excited to have Ledaig 18 recognised by industry experts once again. I’m so proud of each and every member of the Tobermory team for continuously creating such wonderful and distinctive expressions that reflect our beautiful island home.”

Tobermory Distillery was established in 1798 and is the Isle of Mull’s only whisky distillery. One of the oldest commercial distilleries in Scotland, it sits at the centre of the vibrant island community from which it takes its name.

 Tobermory’s Ledaig 18-Year-Old is available from Tobermory’s online store, at £80.

 For more information, visit the Tobermory Distillery website at www.tobermorydistillery.com.