Kilchoman Loch Gorm 2023 Edition 46% NV

Professional reviews

Words of Whisky (88)

Colour me impressed!
Nose
A soft maltiness with peanut skins, smoked barley husks and a tinge of sauerkraut, but also earthy peat, tar, and black olives. Also a whisper of new tennis balls and walnuts.
Taste
Mouthfeel is a little thinner than expected maybe, but the flavours are plenty rich. Salty touches, earthy smoke, tar, and just a whiff of preserved lemons, but also cracked black pepper corns and soft notes of chocolate.
Finish
Long with plenty of coastal touches. Also, the Oloroso sherry keeps building.

BOW (88.50)

Kilchoman Loch Gorm 2023 Edition

In the vast world of Islay whiskies, Kilchoman continues to carve its niche as the epitome of authentic expressions that capture the essence of the Queen of the Hebrides. The Kilchoman Loch Gorm 2023 Edition, bottled at 46% ABV and matured in Oloroso Sherry Butts, stands as a testament to the distillery's commitment to crafting truly genuine Islay whiskies.

Curation by Anthony Wills:

For the 2023 edition of Loch Gorm, Kilchoman's founder Anthony Wills handpicked 22 barrels from three different vintages, with the youngest spirit dating back to 2015. This results in a whisky that is approximately 8 years old, a testament to Kilchoman's dedication to quality maturation and cask selection.

Authentic Islay Essence:

Kilchoman has solidified its reputation as the Islay Distillery, eschewing industry norms and marketing gimmicks in favor of an unwavering commitment to tradition. Loch Gorm, the distillery's 100% sherry bottling, boasts an honest color that reflects the authenticity of the spirit. The lack of artificial coloring indicates a focus on the natural character of the whisky, a choice that aligns with the rugged spirit of Islay.

Nosing the Loch Gorm:

Upon nosing the Loch Gorm 2023, the aroma is a powerful and smoky invitation. It harkens back to the quintessential Islay experience, capturing the essence that draws enthusiasts to the island's whiskies. The smoke is not medicinal but robust, accompanied by a noticeable alcohol presence. In comparison to Sanaig, the vanilla and sweetness in Loch Gorm take a back seat, allowing the raw power of Islay to shine through.

Tasting the Islay Classic:

Tasting the Loch Gorm reveals a classic Islay profile that combines depth, warmth, and robust smoke. The influence of Oloroso Sherry Butts introduces tart aromas without artificial sweetness. Instead, there's a symphony of malt, herbal notes like thyme and oregano, and a base of boiled morello cherries—offering a balance of sweet and sour. The underlying touch of menthol adds a distinct layer, showcasing the complexity of the whisky.

The Enduring Finish:

As the journey concludes, the Loch Gorm leaves a dry and smoky finish. Aromas of herbal liqueur and a subtle hint of cough syrup linger, but the enduring note is the persistent smoke—a reminder of Islay's rugged landscapes. The experience wraps up with a memory of a sunny afternoon on the Rhinns of Islay, a testament to the whisky's maritime influence.

Conclusion:

Kilchoman Loch Gorm 2023 Edition is a robust and authentic Islay whisky that defies the corporate trends of the industry. With its powerful smokiness, tart sherry influence, and a finish that resonates with the spirit of Islay, this expression stands as a bold testament to Kilchoman's dedication to crafting whiskies that embody the true essence of the Queen of the Hebrides. In a world where simplicity and elegance often dominate, Loch Gorm remains unapologetically rugged, offering Islay enthusiasts an experience that is as untamed as the island itself.