Discover the Kilchoman 100% Islay 14th Edition

When it comes to capturing the essence of Islay whisky, Kilchoman Distillery stands as a beacon of both innovation and tradition. Their newly launched Kilchoman 100% Islay 14th Edition takes whisky enthusiasts on a remarkable journey from the barley fields of Islay directly to their glass. Distilled from the farm’s very own barley harvests of 2013 and 2014, and aged for over nine years, this single malt is a must-try for whisky lovers of all experience levels.

Unveiling the 100% Islay 14th Edition

Kilchoman’s latest release is a testament to the distillery’s "field-to-bottle" ethos. Sourced entirely from barley grown on their Rockside Farm, the 14th Edition is not only distilled and matured on-site but also aged for a minimum of nine years. What makes this release stand out is its balanced maturation process: 90% of the whisky has been matured in ex-bourbon barrels, while the remaining 10% spent time in Oloroso sherry casks. This combination gives the whisky a layered complexity of flavours, offering something truly unique in the world of single malts.

Bottled at 50% ABV, the 100% Islay 14th Edition is unchill-filtered and retains its natural colour—ensuring an unadulterated tasting experience. Expect notes of tropical fruits, campfire smoke, and citrus peel on the nose, leading to a creamy palate of caramelised sugar, vanilla, lemon, pineapple, and oak smoke. The finish is long and oily with subtle sherry notes, rounded out by a lingering peat smoke. It’s a complex, rewarding whisky that captures the very spirit of Islay in every sip​.

Kilchoman Distillery - A True Pioneer in Islay

Founded in 2005 by Anthony Wills, Kilchoman is a distillery that champions the traditions of whisky-making while embracing a forward-thinking philosophy. Unlike many larger distilleries, Kilchoman is a Single Farm Single Malt producer, meaning they control every step of the whisky-making process—from growing their own barley to bottling the final product. This approach ensures a deep connection between the whisky and its origins on Islay.

Kilchoman's home, Rockside Farm, is located on the north-west coast of Islay, renowned for its fertile land. Each year, up to 440 tonnes of barley are harvested and malted on-site, giving Kilchoman the unique distinction of crafting whisky solely from ingredients grown on their own land. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship, paired with a respect for local resources, makes Kilchoman a true representation of Islay’s heritage​(

A Taste of Islay’s Rich Flavours

Islay whiskies are known for their robust peat smoke and maritime character, and the 100% Islay range continues this proud tradition. However, Kilchoman offers a more delicate balance of peat, combined with lighter, floral and citrus notes that set it apart from other Islay whiskies. The 14th Edition in particular showcases this balance, blending rich flavours like vanilla, butterscotch, and a signature peaty sweetness into one cohesive experience​.

Kilchoman’s Other Must-Try Bottlings

While the 100% Islay range is the heart of Kilchoman’s portfolio, they offer a range of other exceptional whiskies, each with its own distinct character:

1. Loch Gorm: This sherry cask-matured whisky is named after Islay’s largest freshwater lake. Known for its rich, dark fruit flavours and deeper sherry character, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a bold, intense dram.

2. Machir Bay: Kilchoman’s flagship expression, a well-balanced blend of bourbon and sherry casks. It offers a harmonious marriage of peat smoke and citrus sweetness, making it ideal for those new to Islay whiskies.

3. Sanaig: With a higher proportion of sherry cask influence than Machir Bay, Sanaig delivers a richer, fruitier experience. It’s rounded out by Kilchoman’s signature peat smoke, creating a dram with depth and complexity​.

Additionally, the Kilchoman Machir Bay Gift Set with Two Tumbler Glasses is a fantastic gift option for any Islay whisky lover. 

The Future of Kilchoman

Kilchoman has built its reputation on producing some of the most exciting and authentic single malts in Scotland. Their commitment to crafting whisky that is truly "Islay in a glass" ensures that every release is a tribute to the island’s rich whisky heritage. With the 100% Islay 14th Edition, Kilchoman continues to showcase the best of what Islay has to offer—rich flavours, meticulous craftsmanship, and an unyielding dedication to quality.

Whether you're a seasoned whisky drinker or someone just beginning to explore the world of Islay whiskies, Kilchoman is a distillery that should be on your radar. Their range of releases offers something for everyone, from the bold and rich Loch Gorm to the balanced and approachable Machir Bay.

A Whisky That Embodies Islay’s Spirit

The Kilchoman 100% Islay 14th Edition is more than just a bottle of whisky—it’s a testament to the island of Islay, its fertile land, and the centuries-old tradition of whisky-making that Kilchoman so proudly upholds. With its carefully crafted blend of ex-bourbon and sherry cask influences, this whisky encapsulates everything that makes Kilchoman a standout distillery on Islay.

If you're a fan of authentic whisky experiences, the 100% Islay range is a must-try. Whether enjoyed neat, or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavours, this release is sure to leave a lasting impression. And with other exciting Kilchoman expressions available, like Loch Gorm and Sanaig, there’s no shortage of reasons to explore what this unique distillery has to offer.

For those looking to delve deeper into the world of Kilchoman, a visit to their distillery on Islay promises an immersive experience. From tours to tastings, Kilchoman provides a window into the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.