Kilchoman. I was first introduced to Kilchoman through their Machir Bay and was thoroughly impressed by this Islay newcomer. The Sanig and Loch Gorm are impressive in and of themselves. Port finished whiskies are can be tricky. Either too fruity or sparsely influenced. Done right, and the sweet and spicy balance can be rewarding. Throw in some Smokey peat and maritime brine and you may find nirvana. The color is shiny copper penny with a purplish hue. A light, sweet smoke greets you and draws you in. Cotton candy melted on hickory smoked bacon. The port cask influence comes through providing the fruits to the sweet smoke. Plumbs, strawberry jam, orange marmalade, apples and raisins. As you keep drawing aromas, more sweetness melds with the aromas. Vanilla, milk chocolate, toffee and salted caramels. The maritime quality always present which makes a sweet and savory nose. A small amount of baking spice provides a slight counter to the sweetness. Cinnamon, allspice, black pepper and nutmeg. Not distracting but synergetic. When you draw this onto the palate, a bit of confusion takes hold. The complex, full nose is juxtaposed by a palate that is thin and light. Initially, a spicy sensation of pins and needles is felt. Peppered oak smoked meat (pastrami?) with thin flavorings fruity flavorings. Grapes, vanilla, grilled stone fruits with dark chocolate shavings. The palate is nicely left with a sooty, charcoaled, ashy flavors, but not overtly so, with drying oak tannins. This finish fades slowly for what seems everlasting. One of the most complex and drawing noses that can be nosed all day. The thinness of the body and the comparatively sparse flavors is somewhat of a let down, in the sense that I expected and wanted more flavors, given the complex nose. The sweetness, smoke and spice are nicely balanced. All in all, a well crafted scotch that doesn’t quite reach nirvana. However, this may make a fine Smokey summer sipper. Thanks @LeeEvolved for sharing. Another good whisky by Kilchoman. [87/100][Tasted: 7/25/19]