Isle of Harris

The Isle of Harris Distillery, located in the small community of Tarbert on the Scottish Isle of Harris, is a landmark of artisanal distilling and modern tradition. Founded in 2015, the distillery has been committed from the outset to fostering the island's cultural identity and community. With its "Social Distillery" approach, it plays a central role in creating jobs and strengthening cohesion on the island.

The distillery's most famous product is the award-winning Isle of Harris Gin. Its production is characterized by the use of local ingredients, including hand-harvested sugar kelp from the waters of the Outer Hebrides. This gives the gin its distinctive, maritime aroma. In addition to the gin, the distillery is working on maturing a single malt whisky, which is scheduled to be released in the coming years. Production is based on traditional methods combined with a sustainable approach that respects the island's natural resources.

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Experience the Isle of Harris Distillery – an overview of production, products and special features

Want to know why the Isle of Harris Distillery is now considered a jewel of the Scottish whisky and gin world? Then join us on a journey to the remote west of Scotland, where craftsmanship, passion, and a sense of local identity intertwine in a fascinating way. Here you'll learn how excellent products are created and why the Isle of Harris Distillery will capture your palate and your heart in equal measure.

The History of the Isle of Harris Distillery

In the heart of the small coastal town of Tarbert, on the rugged Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, a new chapter in Scottish distilling began in 2015. The Isle of Harris Distillery was founded not only to produce fine spirits, but also to create jobs, strengthen the community, and preserve the island's cultural heritage.

From the moment you step into the distillery, you'll sense that everyone here is passionate about what they do. Visitors are also welcome to experience the production process, philosophy, and the famous warm "Harris Welcome" firsthand.

Production with heart and hand

From water to whisky

Distilling isn't just a craft on the Isle of Harris, it's a way of life. The pure, mineral-rich water comes from the Harris Hills, fresh sea air, and the distillers' meticulous attention to detail give each drop a unique flavor.

For the Harris Single Malt "The Hearach," only the finest quality barley is used, which is carefully mashed and fermented. This is followed by a slow, double distillation in copper pot stills. The result? A whisky that impresses with its complexity, smoothness, and distinctive maritime character.

Gin with coastal flavors

The Isle of Harris Gin has become a real star and clearly stands out from the crowd. In addition to classic botanicals like juniper and coriander, hand-harvested sugar kelp (a local seaweed) provides a distinctively fresh, slightly salty flavor.

Each bottle is hand-filled and numbered on-site. The blue, wave-shaped bottle design alone transports you to the island's windswept coast.

Products that inspire

The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

Harris's very first single malt is affectionately called "The Hearach," after the Gaelic word for someone born on Harris. This young but already award-winning distillate offers notes of honey, spices, delicate oak, and, of course, a hint of sea breeze.

Isle of Harris Gin

The gin stands for freshness, elegance, and complexity. Citrus fruits, coriander, cassia bark, angelica, and, above all, the signature sugar kelp combine to create a balanced, modern London Dry with a regional twist. Served neat over ice, in a classic G&T, or as a base for creative cocktails, Harris Gin impresses with its smooth and clear character.

Limited Editions & Exclusive Series

The distillery regularly brings special bottlings to market, including cask strengths, experimental maturations, and special gift boxes that invite not only collecting but also enjoying.

Special experiences and philosophy

Sustainability and community

The Isle of Harris Distillery pursues a clear sustainability approach. Local ingredients are favored, production residues are wisely reused, and renewable energy sources are utilized. Those who purchase in the shop or take a tour directly support the development of the island and the coexistence of its residents.

On-site visit

If you ever have the chance to visit Harris, you shouldn't miss the distillery. Tours offer insights from mashing to bottling, tastings reveal the exciting aromas of the whisky and gin. Last but not least, you'll experience the great commitment of the people of Harris, who proudly and warmly represent their homeland.

Experience the Isle of Harris – More tips for connoisseurs

  • Look out for limited special bottlingswhich are only available locally or in the online shop.
  • Try cocktailswith Harris Gin – the distillery provides many recipes online.
  • Follow the Distillery on social mediaso you don’t miss any news, events or competitions.
  • Discover regional specialtiesand handicrafts from the shop.

More than just whisky and gin

The Isle of Harris Distillery is a statement of authenticity, quality, and the good life. It combines tradition with innovation and breathes new life into the island. Whether you're a connoisseur, an island lover, or simply a curious explorer, you'll taste the passion, history, and magic of Harris in every bottle.

Next step for your pleasure journey

Interested in trying Harris spirits for yourself? Visit the distillery's online shop or plan your visit to Harris directly. Hospitality, exciting flavors, and a true taste of Scottish culture await you there!