The Oban Distillery has its roots dating back to 1793 when brothers Hugh and John Stevenson established it on the frontier of the Hebrides Islands. Initially, they founded the Oban Brewing Company, introducing their 'Cowbell Ale' as the inaugural production. In 1989, Oban 14 Year Old was distinguished as one of the six Classic Malts, representing the Western Highlands region.

Oban's distinctive stills are relatively small, and the condensation process takes place in worm tubs, limiting the distillery's production capacity. This deliberate choice results in Oban producing a smaller quantity than it could potentially achieve. Oban whiskies are characterized as light rather than heavy, often attributed to extensive copper contact during production. The outcome is a clean, intensely fruity spirit that, after aging in refill casks, develops a tingling mineral spiciness.