Kilchoman – Sauternes Cask 2024 (70cl, 50%)

This is the third limited release of Kilchoman matured in Sauternes casks, an Islay single malt bottled at 50% in a 70cl bottle at the end of May 2024. It was aged entirely in ex-Sauternes wine casks for over 5 years. Founder and master blender Anthony Wills used 22% first-fill and 78% second-fill casks, filled in 2017 and 2018. Most of the second-fill casks had previously been finishing casks for the 2018 release. The nose is creamy and buttery, with ripe fruit, salty sea air and subtle peat smoke. The palate has butterscotch, floral notes, and tropical and candied fruit with peat smoke throughout. The finish stays sweet, with clean smoke and a rich texture.