Kilchoman recently introduced a more brawny, robust edition of one of its core expressions. Late last year the distillery released a limited number of bottles of the Kilchoman Sanaig Cask Strength (57.8%), which uses the same recipe as core range version (46%). Does that also equal better?
Well, I couldn’t tell you, because I’ve never tried the original Kilchoman Sanaig. There’s an advantage here though, because I’ll can approach this with an open mind that hasn’t been polluted with any expectations yet. And should I really enjoy the new Kilchoman Sanaig Cask Strength, I might just seek out a sample of the original for a later review.
I forgot where, but recently I saw someone post a picture of an 18-year-old Kilchoman. Much like Bruichladdich’s Port Charlotte, the Kilchoman distillery is slowly entering a new phase of maturity. That can only be described as very exciting. Older Port Charlotte is exquisite. One can only hope Kilchoman matures in a similar way.
Having said that, I have no illusions regarding the age of the Kilchoman Sanaig Cask Strength. There’s no official word, but it’s likely made from relatively young stock. According to the distillery website, it’s “a combination of both Oloroso sherry hogshead finishes and fully matured casks.” I’ll just assume they also mean sherry cask with the latter.

Kilchoman Sanaig Cask Strength (57,8%, OB, 2024)
Nose: Certainly some classic sherry and peat notes. This is all about barbecue-y aromas. Grilled beef, bacon and smoked paprika powder, but also sliver of charcoal and fresh tar. Also a tinge of rusty metal, alongside some farmier elements. So, also beef, but when it’s still alive and not barbecued, and spending the winter in a shed.
Taste: Thick, oily mouthfeel. Certainly meaty, but also a pretty spicy arrival. Earthy, almost vegetal peat with tinges of soot, embers and ground pepper. Also notes of blackberries and plums, alongside hints of nutmeg and iodine.
Finish: Long. Slivers of blackcurrants, liquorice and a slight sulphurous note.
Photo: whic.de