Description

The Story Behind Dartmoor Whisky’s First Islay Cask Release

Nestled in the heart of the Inner Hebrides, Islay is a legendary island known for its rich whisky heritage. Famous for its bold, peated malts and dramatic coastal landscapes, Islay has long been a source of inspiration for whisky lovers and distillers alike. For centuries, the island has been home to distilleries that create some of the world’s most sought-after and distinctive whiskies. The combination of unique island climate, ancient traditions, and the unmistakable influence of the sea creates whiskies with character, complexity, and a deeply rooted sense of place.

For Greg Millar, founder of Dartmoor Whisky Distillery, Islay holds a very special place in his heart. It was in 2009 that Greg embarked on a whisky adventure to Islay, enrolling in the Bruichladdich Academy Whisky Training Course alongside a group of passionate whisky aficionados. Little did he know, this trip would ignite a lifelong connection to the island. During his time on Islay, Greg had the chance to immerse himself in the world of whisky production, learning from some of the finest distillers in the business. As part of this experience, Greg was able to purchase an entire cask of whisky that he had helped craft—an exciting, hands-on accomplishment that has since aged beautifully in a bonded warehouse on Islay for 15 years.

Fast forward to today, and that connection to Islay has continued to flourish at Dartmoor Whisky Distillery. It was a natural progression for Greg to bring a piece of Islay’s magic into Dartmoor, infusing their single malt whisky with the unmistakable, peated characteristics that the island is renowned for. After years of planning and distilling, Dartmoor Whisky is proud to announce the release of their very first Islay cask—a truly special release that blends the history of Islay with the distinctive flavors of Dartmoor.

The First Release: A Peated Masterpiece

The Islay cask release is a highly anticipated drop, with each bottle carrying the legacy of both Dartmoor and Islay. The whisky within this cask is intensely peated, with flavors that are rich, smoky, and powerful. It lingers beautifully on the tongue, offering a complex and satisfying finish that whisky connoisseurs will cherish. Every bottle will be numbered and personally signed by Greg Millar and Frank McHardy, Dartmoor’s master distiller, making it a truly collectible item for whisky lovers and collectors alike.

We are only releasing around 300 bottles from this exclusive cask, making it a rare opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to own a piece of Dartmoor’s and Islay’s shared history. The first 100 bottles will be priced at £295, while the next 100 bottles (101 to 200) will be available for around £500. Bottles from 201 to 300 will be priced at approximately £1000.

Why This Release Matters

This release represents more than just a bottle of whisky. It’s a celebration of the spirit of adventure, passion, and tradition that defines Dartmoor Whisky Distillery and the legendary island of Islay. From Greg’s memorable journey to the island in 2009 to the present-day bottling of this extraordinary cask, the Islay cask release is a tribute to the craftsmanship of both Dartmoor and Islay distillers. It’s a rare chance to experience the deep, smoky flavors of Islay in a whisky that carries the unique stamp of Dartmoor’s own innovation and passion.

As a limited-edition release, the Islay cask whisky is expected to be a highly sought-after collector’s item. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky aficionado or new to the world of fine spirits, this release promises to be a memorable and coveted addition to any collection.

A True Collector’s Treasure

We invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone moment in Dartmoor Whisky’s history. With only 300 bottles available, don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of the story that connects Dartmoor to Islay—two places united by the love of great whisky.