KILCHOMAN Sanaig, 46% ABV

Kilchoman is a small, family-run distillery located on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. Established in 2005, it's one of the newer distilleries on the island but has quickly gained recognition for its artisanal approach to whisky-making. Kilchoman is unique in that it is one of the few distilleries in Scotland that grows its own barley, malts it on-site, and distills, matures, and bottles the whisky entirely on the farm. Known for its peated single malt Scotch whiskies, Kilchoman offers a distinct, smoky flavor profile with a strong sense of place, reflecting the rugged landscape of Islay.

Named after an inlet on Islay’s rugged Atlantic coast, Sanaig is a vatting of both sherry and bourbon casks. The high proportion of Oloroso sherry influence adding a balance of dried fruits and spices to classic Kilchoman citrus sweetness and peat smoke character.

Together with the Machir Bay, this whisky forms part of Kilchoman's core range.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Fragrant heather, raisins, pear and orange peel with waves of stoned fruits, mixed spices and rich peat smoke

Palate: Over ripe plums, red cherries and hints of citrus give way to rich barbeque peat smoke, toffee, oak and dark chocolate

Finish: Mouth-coating mixed fruit, caramel, cinnamon and clove with layers of brown sugar, spices, peat smoke and lasting sweetness

Key Information

Serving Suggestions
First things first, be comfortable, relaxed and free from distractions. Pour a healthy amount (15-25ml) into a nosing glass (e.g., glencairn) and let it sit for a while. We recommend a minute of resting in the glass for every year in the cask. Otherwise, let it settle down for 5-10 minutes at least.

Help yourself to a 'warm up dram' in the meantime - something simple to open up the palate. When ready, start nosing the spirit, followed by sipping it (noting how it arrives on your palate and its development), and finally the finish. Take your time to get to know the spirit, noting its expression, character, depth, complexity and flavours. These can all change with adding drops of water so play around to find different sides of the spirit and identity a personal sweet spot for yourself!

But always remember, the best way to drink it is the way you like it!