Kilchoman USA Small Batch No.1

An elegant Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Kilchoman Distillery in Islay, Scotland. It is produced entirely on-site, from the grain to the bottle, using peat from ocean-soaked bogs. It was aged in a combination of 70% Bourbon, 25% Port, and 5% Oloroso casks. This release was marketed exclusively for the U.S. market, with only 1,260 bottles available. The aroma is inviting, with notes of citrus, red currant, peaty smoke, and briny saltiness. The palate develops elegantly, revealing notes of marmalade, tobacco, peat, and vinous oak. The finish is balanced and of medium length, with hints of port, toffee, and cocoa. The bottling dates are July / December 2020, and it was tasted in August 2022.

This is, quite simply, incredibly delicious and an intriguing blend of Scotch with the richer, more caramel-like flavors of bourbon. It's very peaty, so it's not for those who dislike that style of smoke, but if you, like me, appreciate peat, this is essentially a heavily peated Scotch with a bourbon-like finish.

A nice floral aroma sits over the smokiness of this affordable Kilchoman release. The palate begins with sweetness and tartness, followed by a lively pepper. It's quite distinct from the standard offerings and intriguing enough to explore further. Thanks for the sample!

I haven't encountered a disappointing Kilchoman yet, and this one is no exception. Their smoke and peat are exceptional, and nearly everything they produce has a subtle sweetness. This particular expression is slightly honeyed and oaky, but the smoke is still present. I intend to gradually purchase every Kilchoman I can find.

Sweetness and peat on the aroma. The flavor brings peat with a touch of cocoa, light smoky undertones, and a tobacco finish. This was my second time sampling it, and the profile was considerably improved; I truly enjoyed it this time.

From the Flaviar Advent Calendar. Aroma: peat, orange, leather. Taste: moderate sweetness, smoke, oranges. This is quite good. It's not a challenging Islay and is much sweeter. I need to explore Kilchoman.