Port Ellen was established as a malt mill in 1825, and then developed as a distillery under John Ramsay from 1833 to 1892.

The dwindling stocks of Port Ellen whisky, due to the closing of the distillery, became a collectors item.

It was sold in a lot which included an artwork in Murano glass by artist and designer Ini Archibong.

Diageo announced that five percent of the hammer price would be donated to support Care International's work in Ukraine.

[7][8] In 19 March 2024, Port Ellen distillery reopened 40 years after having been closed and undergoing a £185 million (US$235m) restoration.