Ledaig is Tobermory's alter ego — the same distillery on the same harbour on the same island, but where Tobermory is unpeated and gentle, Ledaig is peated to 35ppm and brash. The name comes from the Gaelic for 'safe haven', which is ironic given the intensity of the whisky. The 10 Year Old is the core expression, and it is one of the best-value peated whiskies in Scotland.
Matured exclusively in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 46.3% without chill filtration, the specification is clean and uncompromising. The peat character is maritime and industrial — closer to Laphroaig's medicinal style than Ardbeg's barbecue smoke — with a funky, oily quality that is distinctly Ledaig.
The nose is punchy and coastal: medicinal smoke, creosote, damp seaweed, charred lemon, grapefruit, and lime zest, with a bright citrus core beneath the peat. The palate is oily and grippy — big peat, sweet salty popcorn, toffee, milk chocolate, and apple compote, with a sparkling, spicy arrival that keeps the flavour moving.
The finish is medium to long, with a lingering salty tang, white pepper, cloves, and bitter grapefruit transforming into charred oak. It is an island peated malt that delivers character and value in equal measure — less famous than its Islay competitors, but every bit their equal. If you enjoy Laphroaig and Ardbeg, Ledaig deserves your attention.
