Jura Distillery

Jura Distillery, founded in 1810 by Archibald Campbell, is located on the Isle of Jura in the Inner Hebrides. Over the years, it faced several closures and ownership changes. In 1901, financial difficulties led to its closure, and it remained dormant until 1963. Then, local landowners Robin Fletcher and Tony Riley-Smith revived it to boost the island’s economy and stop population decline. With financial backing from Charles Mackinlay & Co, they rebuilt the distillery, which began producing whisky again in 1963.

The distillery uses water from Loch a’Bhaile Mhargaidh and features four pot stills, contributing to its unique whisky profile. Jura produces 2.2 million liters of alcohol annually. The modern range includes Jura Journey, 10-, 12-, and 18-year-old whiskies, as well as special editions like Jura Seven Wood and Jura Prophecy.

Jura’s whisky is known for its smooth, bright, and lively character, reflecting the island’s distinct micro-climate. The distillery employs a mix of unpeated and peated malts, sourced from Port Ellen maltings on the nearby Isle of Islay, to create a variety of flavors. The whiskies mature in a combination of American and European oak casks, resulting in a balanced and complex spirit.

Visitors to Jura Distillery can explore its rich history and production methods through guided tours and tastings. The distillery plays a central role in the island community, with almost every family on Jura having a member working at the distillery or in whisky-related tourism.