Description

Kilchoman 2023 Small Batch Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 48.7%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Scotland

As one of Scotland’s smallest distilleries Kilchoman can claim that they perform every stage of the production process on-site. Taking water from the nearby Allt Gleann Osamail burn (stream) they produce approximately 120,000 litres of spirit a year. The spirit is then placed inside ex-Bourbon barrels from Buffalo Trace distillery in Kentucky, and first fill Oloroso Sherry hogsheads and butts from Miguel Martin, Jerez, Spain. They often use wine seasoned barrels and rum seasoned barrels in smaller batch releases. When Kilchoman was constructed it was the first new distillery on Islay in over 120 years. Not only a milestone for Islay but for the Scotch malt Whisky Industry.

This 2023 release of Kilchoman’s Small Batch offering has allowed the distillery to mature the spirit using three types of cask. Ex-Bourbon barrels (75%) have been used and also ex-Sherry barrels (5%) have been used in the maturation process. The key to this amazing and delicious single malt though is the ex-red wine STR Casks (20%) used in maturation. These specially selected shaved, toasted and re-charred casks have ignited this whisky with notes of classic citrus and peat smoke but integrated a layer of red fruits, cinnamon spice and fresh vanilla. The combination is just superb. The STR casks have delivered softly sweet aromas of baked apple and honey but also delivered toasted oak and beautiful spice.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: At first there’s a fresh layer of Kilchoman classic citrus and peat smoke but there’s also a wonderful fresh berry aroma perhaps creamy in a way. There’s banana fritters and some iodine but the rich fruit and peat smoke is the star.

Palate: Fresh and fruity, citrus and fresh red berries, cinnamon and nutmeg toasted on an open fire. Some dark chocolate and plump raisins combine with sea salt and mineral peat. It fills the mouth and feels quite creamy on the palate.

Finish: It’s long and smokey with dark chocolate and smouldering bonfire smoke, sea salt and toasted oak. The spices are so well integrated and the whisky feels just right.