Kilchoman USA Small Batch No. 2

Smell - orange blossoms, nectar, light smoke, lemon custard, soot, vanilla, confectioners' sugar, strawberry, cinnamon, greenery, peach, cayenne pepper, bitter herbal notes, and moderate ethanol burn. Taste - toasted almonds, coal tar, orange peel, greenery, lemon, rubber, nectar, apple, cinnamon, clove, strawberry, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla, floral notes, with a moderate alcohol bite. It finishes medium length with orange peel, coal tar, apple, and cayenne pepper flavors. After a disappointing encounter yesterday with a particular expression, I'm exploring more intriguing Kilchoman varieties, beginning with this second US Small Batch bottling. Given the variety of cask types involved, I'm surprised by the aroma's light and subtle character. That young Kilchoman foundation is noticeable, but it's more refined and elegant here. The sharp lemon from the Machir Bay is mellowed to aromatic orange blossoms and custard. Likewise, the palate has a gentler touch. Toasted almonds, orange peel, baking spices, and cayenne pepper emerge from the background. This is definitely an improvement over the Machir Bay, and at a similar cost, it's a success. It still tastes young, but the different cask aging methods help to soften the brightness and bring out more complex scents and tastes. Overall, this is a decent whisky, but not an exceptional one. I'll conclude my series of Kilchoman reviews tomorrow with the third US Small Batch bottling. And a big thanks to a friend for the sample.

Aroma - medicinal and salty, surprisingly faint peat smoke, some citrus zest, a little dark fruit Taste - chewy and substantial, smoke like a campfire, a touch of sweetness in the background Finish - lasting dry ash, moderate warmth

Nose: Subtle smoke and chocolate, orange marmalade, some woody spice Palate: Medium body, dry ash and sharp tannins, dried tobacco Finish: Dry spices and damp smoke, moderate warmth