Kilchoman Machir Bay - 70cl/46%

Kilchoman Machir Bay Single Malt Whisky is the flagship expression from Kilchoman Distillery, Islay’s first farm distillery in over a century, established in 2005 on Scotland’s rugged west coast. Named after the picturesque Machir Bay beach, this non-age-statement (NAS) whisky embodies the classic Islay character with a modern, craft-driven approach. Bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill-filtered, and natural in color, it reflects the distillery’s commitment to authenticity, using locally grown barley and traditional floor malting for some batches.

Flavor Profile and Cask Influence

Machir Bay’s distinctive taste arises from a vatting of whiskies matured primarily (90%) in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, imparting vibrant lemon zest, vanilla, and butterscotch sweetness, with a fresh floral complexity. A 10% portion aged in Oloroso sherry butts adds depth with notes of dried sultanas, sherry-soaked fruit, and cracked black pepper. The nose offers citrus, coastal brine, and peaty smoke, evoking a seaside bonfire, alongside juicy peaches and rich spices. On the palate, tropical fruits, honey, and malt blend with warming peat smoke (50 ppm, comparable to Ardbeg), delivering a smooth yet robust texture. The finish is long, with maritime peat, sea salt, and lingering citrus sweetness, balancing Islay’s bold smokiness with approachable elegance.