Kilchoman Summer 2010 Release Islay whisky 46%

2010 was the year Kilchoman really started finding its audience. Summer 2010 is one of the releases that cemented the distillery's reputation as one of Islay's most exciting new names, long before Machir Bay became a household term.

Expert's description

Kilchoman Summer 2010 Release is an Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, bottled at 46 %.

The release belongs to the period when Kilchoman named its bottlings after the season — a practice that continued until Machir Bay took over as the standing standard release in 2012. Summer 2010 followed in the wake of the distillery's first major successes, Inaugural Release and Autumn 2009, and helped build the reputation that today makes Kilchoman one of Scotland's most respected farm distilleries.

The whisky shows the young, energetic style that characterised Kilchoman in these years — a style that has since been refined, but has never fully lost its original edge.

Tasting notes

Nose

Fresh citrus and green apples meet a distinct, almost sharp peat smoke, with a hint of honey underneath.

Palate

Direct and lively, with peppery smoke, sweet malt and a touch of sea salt that gives a fresh, maritime edge.

Finish

Medium length and dry, with lingering smoke and a final trace of citrus peel.

Specifications

Name: Kilchoman Summer 2010 Release Islay Single Malt Whisky
Distillery: Kilchoman
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 2010
ABV: 46 %
Size: 70 CL
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distillation method: Double distilled
Edition: Summer 2010 Release

Flavour profile

Peated · Young · Citrus-fresh · Maritime · Lively

Investment potential

Medium to high. Summer 2010 belongs to the now-discontinued series of season-named releases from Kilchoman's early years, and this type of bottle historically becomes harder to find as time passes.

Did you know?

In 2010, Kilchoman brought on John MacLellan as manager — a man with over 25 years of experience including a long tenure at Bunnahabhain — coinciding with the period when Summer 2010 was released.

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Frequently asked questions about Kilchoman Summer 2010 Release Islay Single Malt Whisky

What defines Summer 2010 Release?

It belongs to Kilchoman's early, season-named releases and shows a young, energetic and direct style that was later refined as the distillery's experience grew.

Why is this release interesting for collectors?

It comes from a now-discontinued series from the distillery's early years, which historically makes this type of bottle rarer over time.

How does Summer 2010 differ from Spring 2011?

Both belong to the same season-named series but come from different batches and casks, giving each release its own individual character.

Who became manager at Kilchoman around this period?

John MacLellan, formerly long-serving manager at Bunnahabhain, took over the manager role at Kilchoman in 2010 with over 25 years of experience in the whisky industry.

Should this whisky be served neat?

Yes, try it neat first to experience the full, youthful intensity, then add a few drops of water if you want to open up the citrus notes further.

When did Kilchoman stop naming releases after the season?

The practice continued until 2012, when the distillery consolidated its standard release under the name Machir Bay.