Kilchoman Cognac Cask (2023 Edition)

Aroma: Fresh barley, brandy, apple eau-de-vie, cider vinegar. The scent is more coastal than smoky, with a sweet, wine-like quality. An herbal, grassy note also emerges, becoming more pronounced with time and dilution. Palate: A pleasing, gentle smoke is present from the outset, intensifying as it develops and leads to the finish. It's sweet and slightly spicy, revealing stone fruits, marmalade, and citrus zest (grapefruit, orange). A salty, maritime sensation mirrors the aroma. The texture is full-bodied but not slick. Finish: Medium to Long. Salt spray, marmalade, and lingering smoke. This is an intriguing spirit that I initially disliked but have grown to appreciate. Upon first opening, it seemed harsh, sour, and bitter. I even decided against serving it at a tasting event after a preliminary sip. Over the past two months, as I've gradually consumed the bottle down to about half, the sharp edges have softened, and it has gained composure. Both the aroma and palate are uncomplicated. I wouldn't describe this as a highly complex spirit, but it offers a pleasant, well-balanced profile that has maintained a fresh, crisp character while developing depth. As one becomes accustomed to it, the simple harmony of barley and quality cognac cask becomes apparent, and its simplicity is refreshing. It is best enjoyed without dilution, as adding water causes this spirit to become indistinct and generic. While not unpleasant when watered down, and it does gain some sweetness to counter the saltiness, it is superior neat. It's a good spirit worth trying if found at a fair price, especially for Kilchoman enthusiasts. However, I wouldn't strongly recommend actively searching for it, and if you have one in your collection, it's better to open it sooner than to save it for a special occasion. "Good": 83/100 (3.5 stars)

Recently, Kilchoman has released several limited editions that explore different cask aging methods, such as fino sherry, mezcal, and now this intriguing Cognac cask. It has been bottled at 50%abv to maximize flavor in the final product. The label and packaging are visually stunning, featuring a vibrant 'Colonel Mustard from Clue' yellow hue. On the nose, it's remarkably intricate! It begins with a hint of new socks, then reveals chamomile, herbs, blossoms, and apricots. Notes of plastic, damp grass, flowers, antiseptic, and hospital gauze with tape follow. Allowing it to breathe enhances the fruitiness. Flavors of lemon, apple juice, and white wine emerge. After the initial sip, the aroma transforms into lotion and medicinal notes. It releases some spice, notably a distinct red chili note. Truly well-executed. On the palate, there are only three distinct notes, but they are presented very effectively. Apricots, salt, and fruit punch. The finish is very satisfying, though slightly dry. Cotton, sugar, and salt. Apricots. Overall, this is a highly enjoyable whisky, and I feel it's somewhat unfair that my scoring system won't fully reflect its quality, as it feels better than the 92 points I'm awarding it. A very fine contribution from the Islay farm distillery.

Nose: Pears, apples, honey, gentle peat Palate: Baked apple with a hint of honey and smoky peat Finish: Fruit and subtle baking spices with mild smoke Quite enjoyable, fruity, and layered 7.5/10

Nose: Creosote, sea-like, orange With water: fireplace, coal Palate: orange marmalade, butter, burnt orange peel Aftertaste: damp coal, camphor

Smooth, with some smokiness. Full-bodied and rich.

Intriguing notes of peat, meat, and smoke.