One of whisky’s most well known and respected figures, Lagavulin’s Iain McArthur, retired last year. To celebrate his illustrious career, BAFTA award winning director, Eilidh Munro, has created a six minute film which tells the story of his impact not just on Lagavulin but also on the whisky industry.
Islay’s icon and Lagavulin legend, Iain McArthur, has left an indelible mark on the Lagavulin distillery, its visitors and the people of Islay. In recognition of his dedication Lagavulin has released a very special 18-year-old bottling, ‘Iain’s Farewell Dram.’
With only a handful of these special edition bottles available, purchase is via a ballot and lucky buyers must be able to pick up the bottle from the distillery in 2025.
Iain McArthur started his whisky career at Port Ellen Distillery before joining the team at Lagavulin where he has been an integral part of the team for half a century.
Renowned for his versatility, McArthur has seamlessly transitioned between roles, from peat cutting to overseeing casks and conducting his famous warehouse tasting sessions for distillery visitors.
The bottling was carefully selected, with the cask being filled by Iain McArthur 18 years ago, and then the bottles hand poured by Iain at the Lagavulin Distillery this week.
Matured in second-fill Manzanilla casks, Iain’s Farewell Dram boasts notes of smouldering wood embers perfectly balanced with ripe orchard fruits an aromatic spice.
Iain’s friends and family are being given the first opportunity to purchase a bottling on 14 December. A further 18 bottles will be available to buy from Lagavulin Distillery through the ballot until the 31 December.
Iain McArthur, Lagavulin’s Warehouse Manager said: “Being part of the Lagavulin family has been the adventure of a lifetime, but now I’m ready for a change of pace.
“At 18 Years Old, this bottling brings back fond memories for me, enjoying a dram and celebrating moments in my life. I hope everyone that loves this distillery as much as I do gets to enjoy it.”
Eilidh Munro, BAFTA Scotland winning director, camera operator and editor said: “The Legend of Lagavulin was a joy of a film to make.
“It was clear from the get go why Iain is a true legend – not only because of the years he has spent at the distillery but because of the warmth, energy and welcoming spirit he shows to everyone who crosses his path.
“The documentary style felt like the best way to capture this in the most natural way possible, and it was a pleasure to work alongside the distillery team and Lagavulin community to make this film celebrating the one and only Iain McArthur.”
Iain’s Farewell Dram has been bottled at 58.7% ABV, with an RRP of £350.
