Arran whisky is not typically classified as a Highland whisky, despite being located on the Isle of Arran, which is traditionally considered part of the Highland region in Scotland. The reason for this is that the distillery was designed to produce a non-peaty, or non-smoky, style of malt when it was first built.
Arran distillery, like many new build distilleries, has a modern and efficient setup. The equipment is arranged in a single-tier space, making it easy to manage and operate. The mashtun, which is used for mashing the malted barley and hot water to extract the sugars, is small in size. This allows for precise control over the mashing process and ensures consistent results.
The wooden washbacks used at Arran distillery are another traditional feature. These vessels, made from Oregon pine, are used for fermentation. The wooden material can influence the flavor profile of the whisky, adding complexity and depth. The use of wooden washbacks is not as common in modern distilleries, where stainless steel is often preferred due to its ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Arran distillery operates with two pairs of small stills. The size of the stills affects the character of the spirit produced. Smaller stills tend to produce a lighter and more delicate spirit, while larger stills can result in a heavier and more robust spirit. The use of smaller stills at Arran contributes to the overall Highland-style character of the whisky.
Now, let's talk about the classification of whisky regions in Scotland. The classification system is not set in stone and can be subject to interpretation. Traditionally, the Isle of Arran would be considered part of the Highland region due to its geographical location. However, the character of the whisky produced at Arran distillery is more akin to the style typically associated with the Lowland region.
The Highland region is known for its diversity, with distilleries producing a wide range of styles, from light and fruity to rich and full-bodied. While Arran whiskies do exhibit some of the characteristics commonly found in Highland malts, such as a floral and fruity nature, they also have a distinct coastal influence, which sets them apart.
Arran distillery is located near the coast, and the maritime climate of the island can have a significant impact on the maturation process. The sea air, with its saltiness and brine, can seep into the casks during aging, imparting a unique coastal character to the whisky. This coastal influence, combined with the traditional Highland-style production methods, creates a whisky that is truly distinctive.
While Arran distillery is technically located in the Highland region of Scotland, the character of their whisky is more aligned with the coastal and fruity style often associated with the Lowland region. The use of traditional production methods, small stills, and the influence of the maritime climate contribute to the unique flavor profile of Arran whiskies.