Arran whisky is owned by a group of private shareholders who have a passion for creating exceptional whiskies. These individuals have come together to invest in the distillery and support its operations. Being privately owned allows Arran Distillers to maintain their independence and focus on producing high-quality whiskies without the pressure of external shareholders.
I had the pleasure of meeting Euan Mitchell, the managing director of Arran Distillers, during a whisky tasting event. Euan's dedication to the craft of whisky-making was evident in his enthusiasm and knowledge about the entire production process. He shared with us the story of how Arran Distillers came to be and the vision they have for the future.
The company's headquarters are located on a business park near Stirling in Central Scotland. This central location allows for efficient management and coordination of their operations. However, the heart of the whisky production lies on the Isle of Arran itself, where the distillery and associated warehousing are situated.
Arran whisky is a product of the island's unique terroir, with its pristine water sources, fertile fields, and coastal climate. The distillery's location on the island gives them the advantage of being able to use local ingredients and embrace the natural elements that contribute to the whisky's character.
During my visit to the Isle of Arran, I had the opportunity to witness the passion and dedication of the distillery staff firsthand. From the maltmen carefully turning the barley, to the skilled craftsmen operating the copper stills, every step of the whisky-making process seemed to be executed with precision and care.
One aspect that struck me about Arran Distillers is their commitment to traditional methods combined with innovation. They utilize traditional copper pot stills, but also experiment with different cask finishes and maturation techniques to create unique and exciting expressions of their whisky.
Arran whisky has gained a loyal following and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Their core range includes expressions such as the Arran 10 Year Old, Arran 14 Year Old, and Arran 18 Year Old, each offering its own distinct flavor profile and character.
In addition to their core range, Arran Distillers also release limited edition bottlings, often showcasing cask strength whiskies or collaborations with other distilleries. These special releases are eagerly anticipated by whisky enthusiasts around the world.
As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into producing Arran whisky. It is evident that the owners of Arran Distillers have a deep appreciation for whisky and a dedication to creating exceptional spirits.
Arran whisky is owned by a group of private shareholders who are passionate about producing outstanding whiskies. The distillery is led by managing director Euan Mitchell and has its headquarters near Stirling, while the heart of the production takes place on the Isle of Arran. The combination of traditional methods, innovative techniques, and the island's unique terroir result in whiskies that are highly regarded and sought after by whisky connoisseurs worldwide.