peated lochranza malt

About

Machrie Moor marks Arran's first venture into peated whisky — a deliberate move that founder Harold Currie, a former Chivas executive, initially tolerated rather than championed. The name derives from an actual peat bog on the island's western side, where the distillery sources the turf that defines this malt. Unlike the assertive Islay style, Machrie Moor offers something more restrained: a smoky expression that stays fruity and coastal without overwhelming the palate. Produced at Arran, Scotland's only legal distillery and the first to operate on the island since 1837, this whisky matures in ex-bourbon casks. The result is a balance of honey and smoke, with citrus notes threading through the peat. On the nose, sweet heathery smoke mingles with jasmine and rose, followed by pine and dry bramble. The palate unfolds vanilla, honey, and pineapple, supported by subtle vegetal and maritime peat notes. The finish lingers gently, with lingering smoke and sweetness.

Flavour Profile