Kilchoman Machir Bay - 46%

From the distillery website 

Almost two kilometres of beautiful sandy beach welcome you onto Machir Bay. With a combination of rough turbulent seas and stunningly beautiful sunsets, the Machir Bay release embodies the bay after which it is named.

“The dramatic coastal landscape of Machir Bay is reflected in the rugged complexity of this award winning single malt, the flagship of the Kilchoman range.”

Machir Bay, our signature peated single malt, is a vatting of Kilchoman matured in both bourbon and sherry casks. Named after Islay’s most spectacular beach, the high proportion of bourbon barrels create a distinct balance of classic Islay character and fresh floral complexity.

Nose: Lemon zest, vanilla and distinct coastal influence give way to floral intensity, juicy peaches, pears, and wafts of rich spices.

Palate: Bursts of tropical fruit and dried sultanas, warming smoke and waves of honey, malt, butterscotch and rich sweetness.

Finish: Sherry-soaked fruit, cracked black pepper and sea salt. Long-lasting with layers of citrus sweetness and maritime peat smoke.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: The colour of Pino Grigio, forms a thick line which beads before falling as medium slow, thick legs.

Nose: Lemon zest, stoned fruit, orchard fruit, vanilla, soft peat smoke and a little brine.

Palate: Bonfire smoke, vanilla, candied peel, caramel toffee, heather honey, malted milk biscuits and an initial burst of peppery spice. A few drops of water brings more fruit and a little more heat.

Finish: Long and lingering, soft peat smoke, sultanas, coastal salt, the black pepper heat returns and gradually builds.

Summary: A lovely, easy drinking, smoky dram. Light but with subtle complexity, the sherry influence is there but doesn’t overpower the spirit and still allows the bourbon cask notes to come through. Well balanced, with a dash of maritime salt to remind you of its island heritage and just enough spice to add to the experience.

Current price is around the £40 mark, and I’d have to say it’s good value for the money.

If you would like to know more about Kilchoman, the distillery and their whiskies, follow the link to the company website.

Transparency: This sample was part of a 5 dram sample set and tasting session with Brand Representative, Antea Allegro, purchased from The Spirits Embassy. No goods or other incentives were exchanged, offered or requested for this independent review.