Arran Distillery is the only distillery on the Isle of Arran, which sits to the east of Islay, in the Firth of Clyde as it opens into the Irish Sea. The distillery is at the northernmost tip of the island, in the small town of Lochranza.
The story of Arran Distillery starts with Harold Currie. Harold was a director of Chivas, and after a distinguished career there he set out to establish his own. Being a student of Whisky history, he knew that the Island of Arran had, at one time, more than 50 active distilleries, including legal and illegal ones.
However, logistics, shipping, and access to barley and wood caused all production to be moved to the mainland. Harold decided to bring the Whisky back to the Island. Isle of Arran Distillery opened in 1995, they are currently winning awards and building a fan base. Cheers to Harold.
Arran uses almost all of their production in the creation of their single malt lineup, which includes 10YO, 12YO, 14YO, and a unique 18YO. There are a few wood changes mixed in there to keep it interesting.
To their credit, their standard strength is 46% ABV -- which most of us think is the perfect "Sweet Spot" to maintain character and flavor, and to hold up to ice. This is a smaller shop, so production is limited to less than 750,000 liters per year.