Kilchoman Sanaig | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: A mix of ex-bourbon and a significant amount of ex-sherry casks, with a focus on Oloroso sherry casks. Not a finishing process but a mixture from the start.
Age Statement: No age statement, indicating a relatively young whisky.
Color & Clarity: Dark color, indicative of the sherry cask influence. Uncolored.
Bottle Design: Described as having a larger diameter at the bottom than at the top, providing stability and a modern aesthetic.

Balance of Flavors: Intense yet balanced, with a harmonious blend of smokiness and sherry cask influences.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its medicinal smoke rather than bonfire smoke, with a peatiness level said to be around 50 ppm. The Oloroso sherry maturation adds complexity without overwhelming the smokiness.
Flavor Notes: Medicinal smoke, orange peel, resins, pears, heather, citrus notes, chocolate, oakiness, caramel, cloves, and a hint of sweetness in the aftertaste.
Comparison: More sherry cask influence compared to Kilchoman's Machir Bay, which is cheaper and contains less sherry cask influence.

Distillery Background: Kilchoman is a relatively new distillery, founded in 2005, and is the second to last distillery opened on Islay. It is located in the western part of Islay, directly exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.
Name Origin: Sanaig is named after the Sanaig Moor, near the distillery.

Islay Influence: The whisky's character is deeply influenced by its Islay origin, known for peated whiskies. The direct exposure to Atlantic storms contributes to its unique profile.

"This is one for the specialists." - Highlighting its appeal to those who appreciate a more intense, smoky whisky.
"An intense Islay malt but not harsh, not too edgy, balanced, very intense but balanced." - Emphasizing its well-rounded character despite its intensity.

Kilchoman Sanaig is a single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Islay, characterized by its use of ex-bourbon and a significant amount of ex-sherry (Oloroso) casks.
It has a dark, uncolored appearance and a modern bottle design.
The flavor profile is intense and balanced, with medicinal smoke, citrus, and sherry cask influences.
The whisky is named after the Sanaig Moor near the distillery, reflecting its geographical roots.
Kilchoman, founded in 2005, is one of the newest distilleries on Islay, exposed to the harsh Atlantic climate.
The whisky is described as a bargain for its quality, especially for those who appreciate a peaty, sherry-influenced Islay malt.

Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy a strong peaty, smoky flavor will find the Sanaig appealing.
Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the complexity added by sherry cask maturation.
Islay Whisky Aficionados: Fans of Islay whiskies looking for a modern take on the traditional peated style.
Adventurous Drinkers: Those interested in exploring whiskies from newer distilleries with innovative approaches.