Kilchoman Machir Bay 2021 | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Islay, Scotland
Type: Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: A blend of ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, with bourbon being the dominant influence. The whisky is cask strength, indicating it has not been diluted after its maturation process.
Age Statement: Approximately 6 years old.
ABV: 58.3% (116.6 proof)
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the influence of bourbon casks suggests a lighter color compared to heavily sherried whiskies.
Bottle Design: Features a generous opening for easy pouring, with packaging that visually represents the balance between bourbon and sherry cask influences.

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by intense smokiness, with sweet and fresh notes providing balance.
Unique Characteristics: Notably high peat content at 50 ppm, resulting in a very smoky profile. The addition of water releases more flavors, indicating complexity beneath the smoke.
Comparison: Described as a strong, intense Islay whisky, suggesting similarities to other heavily peated Islay whiskies but with a unique balance of sweetness and creaminess alongside the smoke.

Distillery Background: Kilchoman is a relatively young distillery, founded in 2005, yet has quickly established a reputation for quality Islay whisky.
Production Details: Kilchoman malts and smokes its own barley, allowing precise control over the peat level.

Islay Whisky Tradition: Emphasizes the traditional peaty character of Islay whiskies, with Kilchoman being no exception. The distillery's self-malting process is a nod to traditional whisky-making practices.

"This one is a stinker... really, really, really smoky."
"It's warm, it's wholesome. It just invites you to have another sip."
"Definitely not beginner-friendly... It's just too intense."
"Machir Bay is good whisky; this one just adds another layer to it because you can play around with the alcohol levels."

Kilchoman Machir Bay 2021 is a cask strength, heavily peated Islay whisky aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks.
Dominated by intense smokiness, with underlying sweet and fresh notes.
Not beginner-friendly due to its high alcohol content and intense flavors.
The distillery's self-malting process allows for precise control over the peat level, contributing to the whisky's distinct character.
Priced around 75 euros, offering a unique experience for those who enjoy playing with dilution to explore flavor nuances.

Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy heavily peated whiskies will appreciate the intense smokiness and complexity.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals with a developed palate for cask strength and smoky whiskies will find this offering intriguing, especially with the option to adjust the intensity with water.
Islay Whisky Collectors: Collectors or fans of Islay whiskies looking to explore offerings from one of the region's newer distilleries.
Not Recommended for Beginners: Due to its high intensity and complexity, it may overwhelm those new to whisky or those who prefer milder flavors.