Description

Kilchoman Sanaig Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 46%            Age: No Age Statement           Country: Scotland

The Whisky

Kilchoman Sanaig is a beautifully peated Islay single malt that showcases the “sherried side” of Islay’s only farm distillery. While its sibling, Machir Bay, focuses on bourbon influence, Sanaig is defined by its heavy maturation in Oloroso Sherry casks. Bottled at 46% alc/vol, this expression is a meticulous vatting of approximately 70% ex-Sherry and 30% ex-Bourbon casks. The result is a dramatic interplay between the rugged, coastal peat smoke of Islay and the deep, autumnal richness of Spanish oak.

Named after a rocky inlet near the distillery on the island’s west coast, Sanaig is non-chill filtered and naturally coloured. Inside information for the 2025 release indicates a continued focus on “Sanaig’s” specific profile: selecting Sherry butts that provide a “BBQ sweetness” rather than just dry spice. It is a bold, sophisticated dram that has rapidly become a cult favourite for those who want their Islay peat wrapped in layers of dark chocolate and stone fruits.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Initial waves of fragrant heather and earthy peat smoke are quickly met by the richness of the Sherry influence. You’ll find aromas of toffee cubes, white grapes, and pineapple chunks, followed by deeper notes of fresh coffee grounds and orange peel.

Palate: The mouthfeel is creamy and well rounded. Sweet notes of overripe plums, red cherries, and dark chocolate raisins lead the way. As the dram develops, a robust barbeque peat smoke emerges, balanced by hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of walnut.

Finish: Long and satisfyingly coastal. The sweetness of the fruit lingers alongside salted caramel and light citrus, while a persistent, earthy peat smoke provides a warming and drying end.

The Distillery

Kilchoman is Islay’s “Farm Distillery,” and it is the only one on the island (and one of the few in Scotland) to handle every part of the production process on site. Founded in 2005, it was the first new distillery built on Islay in over 120 years. They grow a portion of their own barley at Rockside Farm, which is then floor malted and kilned using local Islay peat. A unique factual detail that defines their spirit is their exceptionally small stills; these small copper pots maximise contact between the spirit and the metal, creating a remarkably pure and fruity distillate that matures much faster than the spirits from Islay’s larger, industrial scale distilleries.

Overall Review

Sanaig is a masterclass in balance, consistently winning Gold at major spirits competitions for its seamless fusion of sherry sweetness and Islay smoke. It is widely reviewed as the “richer, darker brother” to Machir Bay and a must have for any Islay enthusiast.