Distillery
Oban
Oban is a Scottish distillery producing single malt Scotch whisky located in the coastal town of Oban (Argyll and Bute). Founded in 1794, it is one of Scotland's smaller and more historic distilleries and is part of the Diageo group; it is best known for its 14-year expression and releases such as the Distiller's Edition.
- Oban · Highland (West Highlands) · United Kingdom
- Since 1794
- 2 products
The story
The Oban distillery was founded in 1794 by brothers John and Hugh Stevenson; the small port town developed around the distillery. Ownership has changed several times over the decades and today Oban is owned by Diageo. Historically the site has remained compact in size and is known for a relatively limited production compared with many other Scottish distilleries.
Production philosophy
Oban emphasizes tradition, artisanal production and a whisky style that reflects the maritime influence of its location: balanced flavors sitting between the lighter Highland malts and the smokier character of the islands. Production maintains established processes and a clear sense of place.
Territory
Oban, west coast of Scotland. The distillery stands in the town of Oban (Argyll and Bute), geographically described as a gateway between the West Highlands and the Hebridean islands, with a maritime influence on the organoleptic profile.
Production method
Production of single malt Scotch with distillation in traditional pot stills. The facility is small (a limited number of stills) and uses local water; the malted barley is, according to the brand's official information, sourced from cereal-growing regions such as Speyside.
Distillation
Distillation in pot stills (traditional equipment); the distillery operates a reduced number of stills (1 wash, 1 spirit still according to sources).
Ageing
Aging in oak casks; there are editions finished in sherry casks (Distiller's Edition finished in Montilla Fino casks) and special releases matured/finished in other types of casks.
Characteristics
- Type
- Distillery
- City
- Oban
- Categories
- Single malt Scotch
- Highland single malt
- whisky
- Raw materials
- malted barley (barley)
- water
- Casks and ageing vessels
- oak casks
- sherry casks (Montilla Fino)
- Caribbean rum casks (special editions)
- Representative products
- Whisky 21 Years 70cl - Oban
- Whisky Oban 14 Years 70cl
- Whisky Oban Distiller's Edition 70cl - Tube
- Whisky Oban 14 Years - 70cl
What makes it distinctive
- Founded in 1794, one of Scotland's historic distilleries.
- Small-scale distillery with limited production compared with many Scottish plants.
- Organoleptic style characterized by maritime notes and a balance between light peat/smoke and fruitiness.
- Part of the Diageo portfolio and included in the 'Classic Malts' selection.
- Availability of age-statement expressions (e.g. 14 years, 21 years) and special releases such as the Distiller's Edition.