Kilchoman NAS (46%, OB, Autumn 2009 Release)

The second release from the smallest distillery on Islay; Kilchoman and as a bonus bottled at 46%, non chill filtered & natural color.  They seem to be doing everything correctly right out of the gate. The nose is firstly of creamy peat smoke, cocoa, a slight hint of a bonfire and a hint of iodine. The cocoa brings it all together and the over all effect is very nice. After a few minutes in the glass there are some vague maritime notes; more seashore than open ocean but nothing that would make you want to throw in some Coca-cola to cover things up. The taste is at first on the sweetish side but quickly turns to lemon sherbet peat smoke and cocoa and remains some what citrus in character along with the some dryness and the cocoa and the ever present peat smoke. Very, very rich. Also malt and toast. All in all very good. The finish is malty and peated and once again our old friend cocoa makes an appearance. The finish is vibrant and very flavorful and extremely loooong.  After a few minutes the finish is slightly bitter.

Another enjoyable dram from Kilchoman. Keep up the good work.

C$89

Score 84 points

Visit Kilchoman Distillery at http://www.kilchomandistillery.com/