Isleornsay Isle of Skye Highlands & Islands IV43 8QR, UK
The Gaelic Gin Passionate distilled in heart
FÀILTE GU PRÀBAN NA LINNE
Pràban na Linne, producers of The Gaelic Whiskies, is a small niche whisky company on the Isle of Skye. Focussing on quality, it remains one of the few independent businesses in the Scotch Whisky industry, and one of the few with its headquarters in the Scottish Hebrides.
The principal brands of the premium range of The Gaelic Whiskies are the Tè Bheag; an exceptional connoisseurs’ blend, with a high malt content aged in sherry casks, the MacNaMara classic; a lighter blend, also available finished in Guyanan rum casks; as well as the fine vatted malts of Poit Dhubh, bottled at 8 years and 12 years, with a 21 year old to satisfy the most epicurean tastes.
The Gaelic Whiskies continue to be awarded international medals in recognition of their outstanding quality.
The Gaelic Gins
Distilled on the Isle of Skye, the Uisge Lusach range are handcrafted with our passion for fine spirits.
Our small copper pot still, which was traditionally employed distilling illicit whisky, now vapour infuses the Gaelic Gins – the unhurried pace of distilling influencing their well-rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
These are hugely characterful gins, distilled from the heart.
THE NAME
Uisge Lusach – Herbaceous water or “spirit”
[’ʊʃgæ ’lu:sæx]
Continuing the tradition of The Gaelic Whiskies, our new gin reflects and reinforces the rich Gaelic heritage of the Isle of Skye. Distilled using the island’s soft water, taking the “Uisge” from Uisge Beatha (Scotland’s water of life: whisky) seemed very appropriate. “Lusach” (meaning herbaceous or abounding in herbs) presented itself as the perfect partner.
Another front runner would have translated as “water of health”, but we were obliged to be a little cautious of claiming any health giving properties. That being said, we’ve not yet managed to taste Uisge Lusach without a spontaneous sense of wellbeing and a smile creeping on to our faces…
CONSERVATION
In the nineteenth century juniper grew so abundantly across the Highlands that the berries were picked by the sackload and transported by horse and cart to Inverness and Aberdeen to be exported to Dutch gin distillers. Over the years the native hardwood habitats of the Highlands have suffered from progressive depletion.
In establishing Fearann Eilean Iarmain in 1972 Sir Iain Noble was committed to supporting and developing the linguistic and cultural heritage of Gaelic; in education, in the work environment and in the community. As part of these endeavours Sir Iain invested in the environmental heritage of Sleat, pioneering the establishment of one of the first native woodland regeneration schemes in Scotland. Through the foresight of Sir Iain native juniper was included in the regeneration and planting schemes. Though their locations remain a carefully guarded secret, their progress to maturity has been monitored closely, with much enthusiastic anticipation.
Fearann Eilean Iarmain continues to invest in environmental heritage and its diverse wildlife. In recognition of the work being achieved through a long term programme of environmental conservation ensuring this unique landscape for future generations, Fearann Eilean Iarmain was chosen as the winner of the prestigious Golden Plover Award for moorland management in 2017.
We produce small batch limited edition liqueurs using fruit and flowers we have gathered or grown. They reflect the changing seasons and the diversity of organic botanicals from the abundance of wild plant species of the hill, moor and woodland of Fearann Eilean Iarmain.
LOCATION
We are delighted to welcome visitors to our Bùth (Shop) at Eilean Iarmain, located amongst the historic buildings of Eilean Iarmain that sit at the water’s edge overlooking the old stone pier and the water of the Sound of Sleat. Here we offer tastes of our Gaelic Gins and Gaelic Whiskies, and stock a range of cards, gifts and treats, all with a local flavour. We are exclusive stockists of Eilean Iarmain venison.
While we do not offer formal tours of the Gaelic Gin Still house (it’s a very small operation) please ask while you’re in the shop and we will happily show you the still. Please note that we are a working distillery and access can occasionally be closed depending on the distilling schedule.
Sleat is known as ‘The Garden of Skye’ and can often be quieter than better known Skye beauty spots further north of the island – perfect if you want to avoid the crowds. Aside from playing host to our Gaelic Gins and Gaelic Whiskies, the Sleat peninsula offers a wealth of stunning views, beautiful beaches, picturesque castles, vibrant galleries, cosy cafes and outstanding hotels (including Hotel Eilean Iarmain and Am Pràban Bar, right next door to us).
THE GAELIC GIN STILL
Following an illustrious tradition of the Isle of Skye, Sir Iain Noble acquired what is rumoured to be an illicit whisky still, which Lucilla Noble has had converted to distil gin. Gaelic Gin of course!
The traditional copper still, with its cooling worm housed in an old whisky cask, is identical to the smugglers’ stills that were held in high regard and gained such a fabled reputation throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The still is small enough to be transported on the back of a horse – a vital necessity in past times to evade the excise men – we haven’t yet had to test this out! In its former life the still may well have come into contact with juniper, as juniper wood, whilst aromatic, produces very little smoke, and was therefore ideal for fuelling the countless illicit stills hidden away in the remote glens of the Gaidhealteachd of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
With the recent addition of a botanical infusing basket half way along the copper lyne arm, the illicit whisky still is now perfectly at home producing Gaelic Gin, legally of course! Influenced by the copper of the still and the softness of the Skye water, the resulting spirit is exceptional; well rounded, richly aromatic and beautifully balanced.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
Eilean Iarmain was originally ‘Eilean Dhiarmaid’ (Diarmaid’s Isle), named after the great Ossianic hero. The isle is now joined to the Sleat peninsula in the south of Skye. Sleat is held in high esteem in the songs and poetry of old, and was referred to as “Sleite riabhach nam ban boidheach” (“brindled Sleat of the beautiful women”). Sleat is where the great warrior Cuchulain learned the martial arts and where Ossian and the Fenians arrived over the seas from Ireland.
Now a tranquil haven on the Sound of Sleat, Eilean Iarmain was once the Isle of Skye’s busiest port, with several steamers arriving every day from all over Scotland, and a thriving shop serving customers from Glenelg, Broadford and further afield, selling everything from an anchor to a needle. King Edward VII landed at Eilean Iarmain around the turn of the century. Unfortunately the tide was out, but he was carried ashore, and spent around £80 in the shop – a vast sum in those days.
Eilean Iarmain enjoys spectacular views across the water to the lighthouse of Isle Ornsay and beyond to the majestic hills of Knoydart. Built in 1869 by the uncle of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson, the lighthouse continues to be a familiar beacon to all those sailing through the Sound of Sleat.
The bay once supported a fleet of herring smacks: during the boom days of the herring industry it was said that it was possible to walk across to the island over the numerous boats moored in the bay. The small yard where the Gaelic Gin house now stands was once a cooperage which served to supply the small wooden barrels required to transport the salted herrings to places further afield.
GAELIC DRY GIN – 700ML
UISGE LUSACH SÙG
£42.00 – £216.00
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
The juniper of this Highland dry gin is beautifully balanced by a lemon citrus brightness and delicate notes of warming spice. This is a hugely characterful gin, distilled from the heart.
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV.
TASTING NOTES
Nose: Soft cardamom leading to a piquant citrus freshness
Palate: A refined richness of texture and depth of warming aromatic spice, rounded by hints of fresh citrus and lively juniper
Finish: A long lingering delight, smooth and deeply warming
Description
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
The juniper of this Highland dry gin is beautifully balanced by a lemon citrus brightness and delicate notes of warming spice. This is a hugely characterful gin, distilled from the heart.
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV.
Awards
GAELIC SPICED GIN – 700ML
UISGE LUSACH SGEALP
£42.00 – £216.00
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
July 2019 saw the first production of our lively spiced gin – a beguiling and complex combination of vibrant spice with a subtle depth of beautifully balanced juniper. A summer delight and a winter warmer!
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV. Please note that this recipe contains nuts.
TASTING NOTES
Nose: Richly scented exotic spice, with woody and resinous notes
Palate: Bright and zesty on the tongue, the initial kick gives way to a pungent depth of warm spice and earthy coriander, married perfectly with vibrant juniper
Finish: Slightly buttery, with a robust, aromatic length
Description
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
July 2019 saw the first production of our lively spiced gin – a beguiling and complex combination of vibrant spice with a subtle depth of beautifully balanced juniper. A summer delight and a winter warmer!
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV. Please note that this recipe contains nuts.
Awards
GAELIC SWEET GIN – 700ML
UISGE LUSACH STEALL
£42.00 – £216.00
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
After several trial runs with our small test still we made our first full batch of fresh and floral sweet gin in March 2021. This mouthwatering spirit is redolent of wild hayfields, with fresh citrus notes and a lingering buttery richness.
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV. Please note that this recipe contains nuts.
TASTING NOTES
Nose: Deep floral notes with fresh citrus and clean juniper
Palate: Fresh green pine needles on the tongue, with herbal and earthy notes, rounded by a subtle honeyed sweetness, and a beautifully rich texture
Finish: Smooth zesty orange to finish, with a good warm length.
Description
Distilled on the Isle of Skye we handcraft Uisge Lusach with alchemy and passion. Our traditional copper pot still began life as an illicit whisky still, and in 2017 was given a new lease of life: vapour infusing our gin, inspiring Uisge Lusach’s well rounded aromatics and refined rich texture.
After several trial runs with our small test still we made our first full batch of fresh and floral sweet gin in March 2021. This mouthwatering spirit is redolent of wild hayfields, with fresh citrus notes and a lingering buttery richness.
700ml, bottled at 40% ABV. Please note that this recipe contains nuts.
Award
International Wine and Spirits Competition 2023
28TH MARCH 2023 BY LEAH DUNLOP
DEAGH NAIDHEACHD! / GREAT NEWS!
We are so pleased to share our latest good news! All the Gaelic Spirits entered in to this year’s IWSC (International Wine and Spirit Competition) have won medals!
We’re delighted that our Tè Bheag was awarded a Gold medal, with Silver medals for our Gaelic Dry Gin and MacNaMara Rum Cask, and Bronze medals for our Gaelic Sweet Gin and Poit Dhubh 8 year old.
We’re very proud to have received such great scores, which reflect the quality of our products and our commitment to continue producing the finest quality Gaelic Whiskies and Gaelic Gins.
A ceilidh must be in order! Slàinte mhath!
Tastings with a view!
9TH JUNE 2021 BY LEAH DUNLOP
We’re delighted to be offering our well loved Gaelic Whisky and Gaelic Gin tastings from our shepherd’s hut this summer. Located right next door to Hotel Eilean Iarmain you can enjoy wonderful views while you sample our range of award winning Gaelic Whiskies and Gaelic Gins. You might even like to purchase a bottle to take home and enjoy!
If you’re on the Isle of Skye why not pop by and see us?! A warm welcome awaits.
We are currently open Monday to Friday 10.30 – 17.30, and look forward to welcoming you soon.
Slàinte mhath a h-uile latha a chì ‘s nach fhaic!
Good News for Uisge Lusach – The Gaelic Gins!
4TH JULY 2019 BY LEAH DUNLOP
We were delighted to be chosen as The Scottish Gin Society’s featured “Gin of the Month” in March this year. Enjoy reading our page at the link below and try out a delicious Gaelic Gin cocktail recipe – Negroni an t-Samhraidh, or Summertime Negroni!
Uisge Lusach – The Gaelic Gins also featured in journalist Fiona Laing’s new book – The Gin Clan: Scottish Gins and Distilleries, a celebration of the best of Scotland’s distilleries and their signature gins.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Gaelic Gin Still House and the popular Gaelic Whisky shop at Eilean Iarmain located by the historic stone pier, next door to the award winning Hotel Eilean Iarmain, with spectacular views over the water to the majestic hills of Knoydart.
Cruinn, spìosrach agus air a cothromachadh gu h-àlainn.
Medals galore!
25TH SEPTEMBER 2020 BY LEAH DUNLOP
Gaelic Whiskies and Gaelic Gins both win medals in international competitions.
In August we were delighted when The Gaelic Gins won two medals in the International Spirits Challenge 2020! Both our Dry and Spiced gins won bronze – receiving well deserved recognition with these sought-after awards.
More good news in September – our Poit Dhubh Blended Malt has won two medals in this year’s International Wine & Spirit Competition. Both the 12 year old and 21 year old have been awarded silver medals, receiving scores of 93 and 92 respectively. We’re very proud to have received such great scores which reflect the quality of our products and commitment to continuing to produce the finest quality whiskies.
We are delighted! Tha sinn air ar dòigh! These are great achievements for our little company which celebrate our commitment to creating premium Gaelic Spirits.
Slàinte mhath a h-uile latha a chì ‘s nach fhaic!
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