Isle of Harris The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whisky Hits the Market

After years of anticipation, the Isle of Harris Distillery has finally unveiled The Hearach—its very first single malt Scotch whisky. It’s not just a whisky; it’s a tribute to the islanders (Hearachs) and their way of life. With a handcrafted approach and a coastal soul, The Hearach offers a smooth, balanced dram shaped by sea air, tradition, and community pride.

Isle of Harris The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Isle of Harris Distillery, opened in 2015 in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, was founded to bring lasting social and economic benefits to the remote island community. While its gin has already made international waves, the real goal was always to create an iconic island whisky. After eight years of careful maturation, The Hearach—named after the people of Harris—was finally released in late 2023, becoming a symbol of island craftsmanship and patience.

The Hearach is a small-batch, lightly peated single malt Scotch, matured in a carefully curated combination of ex-bourbon, oloroso, and fino sherry casks.

• Full Name: The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Brand: Isle of Harris Distillers
• Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Country: Scotland
• Region: Outer Hebrides (Isle of Harris)
• Distillery: Isle of Harris Distillery
• Age: Minimum 5 years
• Style: Lightly peated, complex, coastal
• Alcohol: 46% ABV
• Launch Date: September 2023
• Range: Flagship release (Batch 1), limited availability
• Availability: Select global markets, distillery shop, and online

Tasting Notes

The Hearach offers a modern yet soulful take on island whisky, shaped by Harris’ wild climate and pure water.

• Appearance: Warm amber with golden highlights
• Nose: Freshly baked malt, sea breeze, orchard fruits, honey, and a touch of peat smoke
• Palate: Silky and well-balanced with toffee, apples, citrus zest, and warming spice
• Finish: Lingering sweetness with gentle maritime saltiness and a soft smoky trail

Price & Availability

Pricing varies by region, with limited supply increasing demand among collectors and enthusiasts.

• Price: Around $80–$95 per 700ml bottle
• Range: Currently one expression (Batch 1), more expected
• Availability:
  • Isle of Harris Distillery shop
  • Select UK/EU/USA retailers
  • Limited online release via the official website

Key Highlights

What sets The Hearach apart isn’t just what’s in the bottle—it’s the philosophy behind it.

• First legal whisky ever produced on the Isle of Harris
• Crafted using soft Harris water and lightly peated Scottish barley
• Matured in three types of seasoned casks for layered complexity
• 100% natural color and non-chill filtered
• Made in small batches with a focus on authenticity and community impact

Experts’ View

Industry reactions have been positive and full of admiration for the distillery’s patient craft.

• “A gentle but complex dram that reflects the soul of the Outer Hebrides,”
• “Light peat, rich cask character, and a crisp coastal finish make The Hearach worth the wait.”

Early buyers have praised the whisky’s balance of sweet, smoky, and maritime notes. Many appreciate the natural production methods and love that it’s approachable for new whisky drinkers while offering enough depth for seasoned sippers. The bottle design, showcasing Harris’ geography, also gets high marks.

FAQs

Q1: Is The Hearach available in the USA?
Yes, though in limited quantities. Check specialty stores or the distillery’s site for updates.

Q2: Is The Hearach peated?
It is lightly peated, adding just enough smoke to enhance complexity without overpowering.

Q3: How should I enjoy The Hearach?
Neat or with a few drops of water to open up the aromas. Great for slow sipping.