Origin: Isle of Islay (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 50%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Sherry
Chillfiltered: No
Additional coloring: No
Owner: Kilchoman
Average price: € 180.00
Official website: kilchomandistillery.com
As the inventory in the warehouse begins to reach significant maturations, it was inevitable that sooner or later the perhaps most famous edition of Kilchoman, the annual 100% Islay made only from barley grown in their fields, would have some “special edition” versions.
Released in October 2025, this one combines the harvests of 2011, 2012, and 2013, which were then distilled and matured in sixteen first-fill ex-sherry oloroso casks from the José y Miguel Martín bodega, as always.
It is a return to maturation entirely in ex-sherry that followed the fifteenth edition of the 100% Islay of the same year, all in ex-bourbon.
Tasting Notes
Rough and soft at the same time on the nose, with leather, nuts (walnuts, almonds, roasted hazelnuts), dried plum, candied orange, grilled pineapple, and salted caramel intertwining between the nostrils, enveloped by an earthy smoke. Consistent minerally and coastal veins, at times with hints of sulfur, bring a pronounced citrus note to the forefront, declined in red. Licorice, chocolate, coffee beans, and toasted sugar in the background, along with a sprinkle of spices (cinnamon, nutmeg). It expresses remarkable freshness for such intense aging in sherry.
On the palate, it reveals the same sparkling freshness as on the nose, despite an oily texture, thanks to the citrus notes that are even more evident (including juice, candied fruits, and jam), a lively spiciness (including black pepper, anise, and cloves), and a slight balsamic influence. The heart remains sherried, with fruits (including dates, sour cherries, and carob), still salted caramel, cacao, and coffee (more pronounced), leather (less pronounced), and catalan cream. The smoke grows in intensity without ever overpowering, amidst burnt malt and wood, with a pronounced saltiness especially in the finish. Very balanced and full, substantial.
Finale long of smoke and citrus, among ash, candied orange, nuts, subtle spice, licorice, and plenty of salt.
Review: A rich and full whisky that provides complete satisfaction with perfect balances and a body that is well-balanced between opulence and lightness. An excellent example of what a 100% Islay can express.
Vote: 89/100