Kilchoman Machir Bay (2017 Edition)

It's surprising how light the color is for something that has such an obviously strong peat and smoke presence. This is highly reminiscent of Ardbeg. The nose is tremendously complex and balanced without being overwhelming. It's strong, but under control. Ardbeg mixed with some meaty Lagavulin. Such a delicious smell. The peaty notes are rich, but so is the warmth from the alcohol. This is rich and full of cereal, but it is also sweet, balanced, slightly fruity, and a little herbal. A bigger sip brings out a lot more of the herbal flavor, making it taste more medicinal like Laphroaig 10. In that regard, I guess it has hit Islay bingo. That said, Ardbeg and Lagavulin combined could craft a hybrid that is better than either, Laphroaig is a bit unwelcome here, aside from its grain flavor. A little water makes it taste much more like Laphroaig 10. In fact, it becomes hard to distinguish, unfortunately. The bitterness of Band-Aids comes out and the flavors balance each other less. It becomes a much more aggressive drink. As much as I am disappointed by the Laphroaig flavor, judging this just based on the best flavor that it can produce with its ABV (in this case, like many, that's the cask strength), it's very good. Unfortunately, the watered-down flavor does not taste good enough to warrant the price and the unwatered flavor is quite good but is not good enough to warrant the price either. Watering it down further, some more sweetness comes out. While that is a nice reversal, the flavors then become uncomplementary. The whole thing tastes appropriately strong, but it also tastes like there is a lot of mismatched inspiration here. Some fruitiness comes forward and the whole thing is still very rich, but it isn't as delightfully flavored as it should be. It's only the slightest bit better than Laphroaig 10.

The nose indicates a fairly young spirit, with evident fresh, young malt. This, combined with the peat smoke, creates a distinctive bouquet compared to other Islay whiskies. It's undeniably an Islay due to the smoke's character, but the rest is unique. The aroma suggests fresh, green produce still covered in soil. The smoke is more akin to Lagavulin and Caol Ila rather than Ardbeg and Laphroaig, presenting as very bright and less like a bonfire. On the palate, the smoke is quite uplifting and bright, and the fresh malt flavors continue. However, this isn't what I'd call rich. The approach is straightforward and no-nonsense: it delivers what you expect and then moves on. The mouthfeel is rather light. It remains reasonably complex and enjoyable, and quite approachable for an Islay, but the richness isn't as pronounced as in Lagavulin, Laphroaig, and Ardbeg. Despite the lesser richness, it's still a spirit I enjoy drinking and experiencing. It has a pleasant freshness and a relaxed character compared to some of its gentiane relatives. It's lighter and best served chilled. It also mixes very well with soda water and in any cocktail requiring a slightly sweeter, milder amaro.

It appears I have the 2017 version. Poured neat, the color is quite light, similar to Ledaig 10. The nose has an earthy quality, like a pail of fresh milk. There's also smoke, along with earthy malt and young wood notes. The palate features filtered smoke with malt and a light French vanilla coffee flavor. It's surprisingly refined given its lack of age. The finish is long, carrying smoke and creamy malt/coffee with a gentle, non-drying barrel influence. Quite enjoyable, it reminds me of the Bunna Toiteach profile with its smoky vanilla. This discovery means I must now sample their other expressions... oh dear... 89/100. If you appreciate Islay whiskies, this is worth trying.

Nose presents as sweet, smoky seawater. Palate is oily and overpowering with significant pepper. Plenty of smoke and sweetness remain. Finish is medium with additional smoke and a return of the saltiness at the end.

Pour 12 of 14 from 1/4 oz samples at a whisky club I belong to. Enjoyable with hints of vanilla, citrus, caramel, peat, smoke, dried fruit, and pepper.