Kilchoman Machir Bay Review

Distilled & Bottled by Kilchoman

Region: Islay

Type: Single Malt

ABV: 46%

Age: NAS

Color: Light Gold

Kilchoman’s flagship whisky is aged in a majority of Buffalo Trace ex-bourbon barrels as well as some Oloroso sherry butts from José y Miguel Martin. It is bottled without chill filtration or caramel coloring.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Spicy and herbal up front with peat notes of damp forest, rotting vegetation and costal bonfire. Then comes some bourbon barrel sweetness of vanilla and caramel as well as a pleasant toasted barley note.

Palate: Medium mouthfeel weight with maritime influence and peppery spice. There is plenty of caramel sweetness and some citrus notes of smoked lemon.

Finish: Medium in length, there’s some smoldering coal embers frying up savory bacon strips. Spicy notes of anise and pepper. The toasted barley cereal returns from the nose as does the smoky citrus of the palate

Rating: 7/10

Conclusion: Kilchoman has bottled a very solid malt whisky that absolutely earns its place amongst its Islay peers. This pour is spicy with a nice amount of lemony citrus, vegetal & smoky peat influence. Bourbon barrel sweetness and nice savory/meatiness were the star of the shows that work well together. If you’re on the fence about a Kilchoman product, this is a great introduction!