Kilchoman Sanaig (2018 Edition)

Nose: It carries the typical distillery essence found in Kilchoman's Machir Bay and Islay Barley releases. However, the grain and citrus elements are replaced by richer cooked fruit scents and spices. The peat level is the same as Machir Bay, yet the cask treatment imparts a fuller body and more opulent character. A subtle, subdued seaweed note is present, like the aroma from a beach bonfire smoke with undertones of salty air and honey-glazed bacon. Palate: A gentle yet substantial smoky sensation arrives with cooked fruit notes (prunes, apricots). The distillery's signature spice is noticeable as it develops, but it's mellow and smooth, revealing a complex array of warm spices. The peat smoke, possessing delightful qualities of leather, chocolate, and tobacco, is ever-present, and the texture is slightly richer than neutral. Finish: Moderate. The flavors recede gracefully, leaving a balanced aftertaste with lingering wisps of smoke. Sanaig features aromatic peat smoke, the fruity esters from a lengthy fermentation, fresh bourbon casks, and strong oloroso sherry casks, positioning it as one of Kilchoman's finest creations – perhaps the standout of their standard offerings. It's excellent on its own, but a small addition of water enhances it. While water tends to soften and harmonize Machir Bay and Islay Barley, with this expression, it unifies the palate and makes the spirit truly shine. Interestingly, the unaged spirit is identical to Machir Bay; the difference lies solely in the maturation casks. Machir Bay uses 90% ex-bourbon and 10% ex-sherry casks, while this one employs a 70% ex-sherry and 30% ex-bourbon combination. They exclusively utilize freshly seasoned casks and avoid re-using them, ensuring the cask impact is always vibrant and potent. Sanaig is a dependable and well-integrated no-age-statement whisky, initially exclusive to France but now a staple in their main lineup. "Very Good": 86/100 (4 stars)

A subtle Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Kilchoman Distillery in Islay, Scotland, created by Anthony Wills. It starts with a fragrant introduction of fresh grapes, pineapple, dried fruit, espresso, and peat. Its creamy, lively middle brings forth flavors of malted barley, vanilla, stone fruit, figs, raisins, white pepper, and white chocolate, concluding in a lengthy and mellow finish with hints of rancio, peat smoke, and salt spray. March / July 2020

The Sanaig was my preferred choice among three samples from the Flaviar box, which also included the US small batch and Machir Bay. This expression exhibits the most Oloroso sherry cask influence of the three, contributing to a slightly sweeter and more complex profile. While I'm not a significant fan of peat, in comparison to other Islay distilleries, these whiskies offer a much more subdued and delicate smokiness. A considerable advantage in my estimation!

Has a "medical" smell, not like disinfectant but more like strong medicine. The taste is surprisingly sweet and rich, reminiscent of rhubarb pie. It leaves a pleasant tingling warmth. A subtle hint of the sea appears in the aftertaste, followed by hints of peat after a few sips. Generally, the flavor is enjoyable and intriguing.

Nose: Peaty, sulfurous, reminiscent of Machir Bay but less intense. Smoke, lemon. Brown sugar. Taste: Sweet smokiness, dark fruit notes, rich and full-bodied. Medium consistency. A pleasant balance between the smoke and the fruity sweetness. Finish: Red fruits, cake, smoke, medium length.

4.1 Re-evaluate after another tasting. Tobacco ash aroma, smoky. Tangy lemon juice. Like a drink smoked over a charcoal grill with raspberries and lemon juice. Compared to Fusion, it lacked complex spices but was straightforward and enjoyable to drink. Makes me want to try the upgraded Loch Gorm.