Kilchoman Small Batch 3 | Released 2021

Decided to try this after having enjoyed other Kilchoman drams, what a great expression this is. An excellent marriage of sweet sauternes influence, with fruit characteristics from the sherry wood and a backbone of ex-bourbon cask matured sprit providing vanilla and butterscotch notes. Bottled at a great drinking strength, and cracking value for money.

When I first opened the bottle the taste was powerful bonfire and soot leaving me a bit unsure. Now I’m past the neck pour and some air has got in, the smoke and soot are no longer overwhelming and sweet summer fruit is emerging. I tried it with water but think that may have accentuated the smoke/soot and drinking it neat seems to carry the sweetness and fruitiness more and although 49.1% ABV, it’s not too spirity. Challenging at first, but now I’m getting to know the whisky, it’s really growing on me. It’s a good’un!