Kilchoman Fino Sherry Cask Matured Limited Release Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 50%

Fino is the most delicate of all sherry styles — light, dry and almost briny. Letting Kilchoman's raw peat smoke meet that kind of finesse shouldn't work. But it does, because both share the same coastal character.

Expert's description

Kilchoman Fino Sherry Cask Matured Limited Release is an Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, matured in ex-Fino Sherry casks and bottled at 50 %.

Fino comes from the Jerez region in southern Spain and is made from Palomino grapes grown in chalky albariza soil. The wine is aged under a layer of yeast called flor, which protects it from oxygen and gives Fino its characteristic dry, yeasty profile. Maturation takes place in American oak using the traditional solera system, typically over 4-7 years.

When Kilchoman matures its spirit in these casks, the whisky draws yeast and dough notes, almonds and a distinct briny profile from the wood — a profile that plays surprisingly well with Islay's own maritime character and peat smoke.

Tasting notes

Nose

Fresh yeast and lightly baked dough meet toasted almonds and a clear sea breeze, with the peat smoke sitting as a deep, dark base beneath it all.

Palate

Dry and mineral, with notes of almonds, citrus peel and a light acidity from the Fino casks that slowly gives way to warm smoke and a touch of fresh herbs.

Finish

Medium length, dry and salty, with lingering smoke and a final, slightly bitter almond note.

Specifications

Name: Kilchoman Fino Sherry Cask Matured Limited Release Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery: Kilchoman
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: Min. 5 years
ABV: 50 %
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Ex-Fino Sherry Casks
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distillation method: Double distilled
Number of bottles: 15,650 bottles
Edition: Limited Release
EAN no.: 5060210706685

Flavour profile

Peated · Fino-matured · Mineral · Saline · Dry

Did you know?

Fino is the only sherry style aged under a protective layer of yeast called flor — a living culture that stops the wine from oxidising and gives it its uniquely dry, yeasty character.

See our full range of Kilchoman

Listen to our podcast:

Frequently asked questions about Kilchoman Fino Sherry Cask Matured Limited Release Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

How does Fino Sherry Cask Matured compare to other sherry whiskies?

It's noticeably drier and more mineral than a typical oloroso or PX-matured whisky, with notes of almonds and sea salt rather than dried fruit and sweetness.

What's the difference between Fino and other sherry styles?

Fino is aged under a layer of yeast called flor, which protects the wine from oxygen, while oloroso, for example, ages without flor and becomes darker, sweeter and more oxidative in style.

Is this whisky a good fit for an Islay fan who usually prefers drier releases?

Yes, the dry, saline profile makes it a natural choice for those who find the sweetest sherry whiskies too heavy.

How many bottles exist of this release?

15,650 bottles were released, making it fairly widely available as limited releases go.

Should Fino Sherry Cask Matured be served neat?

Yes, try it neat first to get the full mineral and saline character, and add only a few drops of water if you want more sweetness to come through.

Where do the Fino casks come from?

They come from the Jerez region in Spain, where Fino is made from Palomino grapes and aged using the traditional solera system in American oak.