WhiskyNet Hungary Insight: The Isle of Arran, Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Lochranza Distillery

  • 23 May 2025 9:16 AM
WhiskyNet Hungary Insight: The Isle of Arran, Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Lochranza Distillery
Often described as "Scotland in miniature," the Isle of Arran is home to two beautiful distilleries: Lochranza in the north and Lagg in the south.

Arran Single Malt is crafted at Lochranza Distillery, established in 1995 at the north-west tip of the island, in the village of Lochranza. The site was carefully chosen for its exceptional water source—Loch na Davie—whose waters are naturally filtered through six granite waterfalls before reaching the distillery in the foothills. The distillery is independently owned by Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd., who also own the Lagg Distillery in the island’s south.

This June, Lochranza will proudly celebrate its 30th anniversary, having opened its doors on June 29th, 1995. As one of the pioneering distilleries of the 1990s whisky revival, Lochranza has remained independent since day one, nurtured by a small, dedicated team of passionate whisky people. Their Arran Single Malt embodies a bold, characterful spirit that whisky lovers around the world recognise and trust.

With every bottle of Arran, you can be confident in the quality inside. The team consistently prioritises flavour and integrity in every expression. Their aim is simple: to create whisky without chill filtration and with no added colour that people want to open, share, enjoy, and celebrate.

Stewart Bowman has led as Distillery Manager since 2021, following the retirement of industry veteran James MacTaggart. With a background that includes time at Brora and Cragganmore, and eight years at BrewDog, Stewart brings a wealth of experience. Under his stewardship, the signature unpeated style of Arran—marked by orchard fruits, citrus notes, and sweet spice—remains central to the distillery’s identity.

Lochranza double distills its spirit, maturing it primarily in ex-Sherry and ex-Bourbon casks. They also innovate with casks that have previously held various wines and spirits, resulting in a popular cask finish range and sought-after annual limited editions. These offerings highlight the depth, versatility, and complexity of the Arran spirit.

Arran Single Malt is a must-have in any whisky collection—a dependable dram for any occasion.

The 30th anniversary of Arran marks more than just a milestone. It’s a moment to reflect on a journey defined by independence, integrity, and innovation. Celebrating a trailblazing distillery that was starting up when others were shutting down, insisting on the purest water source, and staying true to their vision of quality whisky.  But most of all, its celebrating the memories, the shared moments, and the enduring spirit that connects everyone who’s been a part of the unique story.

Arran is a spirit that stays with you and certainly worth reflecting on.

Available at whiskynet.hu or visit your nearest GoodSpirit Shop.

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