This is the last of the whiskies from the Arrowine/Impex tasting from early November. And quite possibly my favorite. Entirely aged in former sherry casks (!), this is bottled naturally (no filtering, no coloring), at 46% ABV.
Nose: Peat, cigar ash, smoked currants, red berries. Simple, but very, very rich. The smoke isn't overpowering but it is savory. The peat is almost crystalline - so many facets. This doesn't come across as BBQ like other sherried Kilchomans, but instead the berries and smoke coexist and overlap a little bit.
Mouthfeel: Very full!
Palate: Just kidding - BBQ for days! What is discrete in the nose combines forcefully on the tongue. Strong, smoky BBQ, followed by smoked pork, red grape skins, grapefruit zest, smoked fish (anchovies?). Great flavor.
Finish: Sweet oak, deep pepper, rich smoke.
Verdict: This was my favorite of all seven drams from the Arrowine/Impex tasting. I am a sucker for sherries Islay Scotch, and this really brings everything to the table - sweet, heavily peated, nuanced, and interesting every step of the way. Kilchoman is the best.
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