Oban

Right in the centre of the small harbour town of Oban on Scotland's west Highland coast stands the distillery of the same name – and quite literally first: the distillery was founded back in 1794 by brothers John and Hugh Stevenson, long before today's town grew up around it. With just one wash still and one spirit still, Oban remains one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland to this day.

Since 1988, Oban has been part of Diageo's exclusive "Classic Malts" range, representing the Western Highlands. From the Oban 14 Year Old to Little Bay, you will find the right bottle for every occasion in our selection.

How can a distillery be older than the town it stands in?

Oban is one of only a handful of Scottish distilleries whose history can be traced back into the 18th century: the distillery was founded in 1794, while today's town of Oban only gradually grew up around it – especially once the arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century turned the town into an important "Gateway to the Isles". In 1890, owner James Walter Higgin had the site extensively renovated; construction of new warehouses had to be halted after 5,000-year-old human remains were found in the ground. In 1923, Oban passed to Buchanan-Dewar, and after several mergers it now belongs to Diageo.

What's the story behind the colosseum overlooking the town?

High above Oban stands an unfinished replica of the Roman Colosseum, known as "McCaig's Tower". Wealthy banker John Stuart McCaig had it built around 1900 to give local stonemasons work during the winter months and to leave a lasting monument for posterity. His death in 1902 ended the project prematurely – only the outer façade was completed, which to this day offers spectacular views over the town, the surrounding islands, and the distillery standing directly below.

Overview of the most popular bottlings

1. Oban 14 Year Old
The distillery's classic core bottling.
Taste: Spicy and maritime with subtle smoke and salty freshness.
Serving suggestion: An excellent introduction to the West Highland style.

2. Oban Little Bay
Matured in smaller casks for more intense wood contact.
Taste: Bolder and spicier than the 14 Year Old.
Serving suggestion: For anyone wanting a more intense take on Oban's maritime character.

Facts and figures

Address: Stafford Street, Oban, Argyll. Founded: 1794 by John and Hugh Stevenson. Owner: Diageo. Range: Classic Malts (Western Highlands, since 1988).