Torabhaig Distillery Unveils Its First Core Range Single Malt – The Taigh

Torabhaig distillery has officially introduced Taigh (pronounced "tie") the inaugural single malt in its core range. Translating to "house" in Gaelic, this landmark release was developed in a creative partnership between the Skye-based distillery and acclaimed Scottish poet Iona Lee, and follows the distillery’s Legacy Series, which includes the Allt Gleann, Cnoc Na Mòine, and Sound of Sleat expressions.

The name "Taigh" carries deep significance for the distillery: beyond referring to the converted 19th-century farmstead where Torabhaig's stills reside, "Taigh" is intended to evoke a wider notion of home – one rooted in the landscape, coastline, and tight-knit community of the Sleat Peninsula, as well as the individuals who craft the whisky.

Produced in small batches, this expression is matured in a combination of first-fill and refill Bourbon casks as well as Madeira casks. It is heralded as the definitive representation of the distillery’s house style.

Torabhaig whisky maker Neil MacLeod Mathieson described Taigh as the embodiment of the distillery's ambitions since it began producing spirit – a whisky that prioritises elegance and balance, with smoke serving as a complement rather than a dominant force. He noted that while first-fill Bourbon barrels have long been central to the Torabhaig character, the inclusion of Madeira-matured spirit in this release introduces a rounded softness that gives the whisky a particularly inviting quality.

The single malt has no chill filtration or added colour, and is said to present gentle smoke notes alongside vanilla custard, toasted almonds, sweet dried fruits, and warming spices on the palate.

One of only two single malt distilleries on Skye, Torabhaig was established in 2016 by Mossburn Distillers and fired up its stills a year later in 2017.

The partnership with Lee, who has penned an original work inspired by the distillery’s rugged Sleat Peninsula home, is said to underscore Torabhaig’s philosophy that a whisky’s identity is shaped as much by its cultural heritage as the wood in which it matures.

Over the next few months, Lee’s poetry will also be brought to life through live performances, film, and editorial features. 

Bottled at 46% ABV, the Torabhaig Taigh is now available globally with a MSRP of £40 (US$52) for a 700ml bottle.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team