Kilchoman USA Small Batch No. 6

Batch #6. 1260 bottles produced. The label indicates a blend of 70% bourbon barrel, 25% PX barrel, and 5% oloroso barrel. The bourbon and oloroso components are diluted to 46% ABV, while the PX is bottled at cask strength (ABV not specified). The final product has an ABV of 47.9%. Nose: Lemon, mango, and smoked caramel. There's a note reminiscent of mezcal-smoked agave. Then, the PX barrel contributes a rich, sticky red fruit. The peat influence is more subtle than in most Kilchoman releases, presenting mainly as smoky notes with a floral undertone. A very pleasing aroma. Palate: Lemon curd, cinnamon, and caramel sticky buns, with smoked vanilla frosting. The mid-palate features more lemon and other citrus notes, along with something akin to a very mild smoked fish, a slightly briny quality. It's difficult to articulate precisely, but it is delicious. The finish offers cherry cough syrup, more smoked caramel and vanilla, and some baking spice. The mouthfeel is excellent, with a thick, oily, coating texture. This is superb. Kilchoman appears to excel with various sherry finishes, and this is an example, albeit in a distinctive manner. It demonstrates great balance between the influence of the cut bourbon and the cask-strength PX. It's juicy, but not solely so, and not excessively sweet. A remarkably interesting and skillfully executed use of the casks. This might be my favorite Kilchoman to date. I'm about to finish the bottle and am sad to see it go. However, I will definitely be on the lookout for the next USA small batch release, whatever it may be, as this bottle highlights the thoughtfulness and care invested in creating these limited editions (at least in my opinion).

48.1% ABV. The aroma is of sweetened salt water. The peat is not apparent initially. Peat emerges on the palate, and the sweetness persists. It has a coating mouthfeel. The finish is dry with a lasting warmth.

Considerably better than my previous tasting. A strong cinnamon presence throughout. The flavors are rich and evolving. Excellent.

Gentle smoke and peat. The finish is pleasant. Sherry sweetness appears slightly. Very enjoyable.

Peat, tobacco, smoke, and oak notes.