Origin: Isle of Islay (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 50%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Bourbon and ex-Calvados
Chillfiltered: No
Additional coloring: No
Owner: Kilchoman
Average price: € 100.00
Official website: kilchomandistillery.com
Although there are not many declared ageing editions from the Islay distillery, they have grown in number in recent years, and with 2025 marking Kilchoman’s 20th anniversary we can expect to see many more.
We start with this thirteen year old, released in late February 2025, which sees a mixed maturation of 10% in ex-calvados casks (not exactly common for the distillery) while the rest comes from ex-bourbon casks, between barrels (70%) and others (20%) of a smaller size defined as Octave by Anthony Wills but which in reality, given their size (100 litres, specially made by a cooperage) are closer to quarter casks.
In this perspective, the first ten year old in the Loch Gorm series was also recently released, while an eighteen year old is planned later this year.
Tasting Notes
A fresh, crisp nose of white fruit (apple, pineapple, mangosteen, peach, banana), almond confectionery, lemon peel and marshmallow on the fire, leading straight towards the consistent peaty side with its maritime and iodine profile, with a thick, elegant fish grill smoke sprinkled with brine, nori seaweed and a slight bituminous inflection. Sweet background of vanilla, milk chocolate, scones and blackberry jam, while a sour cider aspect emerges on the length. Rich and full.
The palate begins with citrusy and tart notes, with lemon, lime and orange zest intertwining with red apple, white currant and grape juice, sprinkled with black pepper and ginger. Intense, acrid smoke suspended between land and ocean, between burnt shrubs, aromatic herbs (marjoram, thyme) and smoked seafood, leading to the sweeter aspects of cooked cream, jam (apricot and blackberry), candyfloss and puff pastry. Nuts (almonds, pecans), liquorice root and salty chocolate with chilli pepper complete the picture. Lively and crisp.
Long, briny finish of citrus, black pepper, used ashtray, grilled peppers, white fruit, cooked cream, liquorice, nuts.
The part of Calvados doesn’t affect it much but it makes itself felt anyway, imparting that fresh crispness that moves (slightly) away from well-known paths. A solid, elegant Kilchoman, with all its little things in place, perhaps not very exciting but certainly well made.
Vote: 89/100