As winter descends on Asia, you would be right to reach for a dram that warms both body and soul. We think Machir Bay from Kilchoman might be what you need.
There’s whisky, and then there’s whisky. There’s single malt that you might try to ‘elevate’ a cocktail with, and then there’s timeless spirit that deserves to be revered and respected a little more. Kilchoman’s Machir Bay, from one of Scotland’s most influential Scotch regions, is the latter in every respect.
An excellent single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, and named for the island’s most beautiful beach, Kilchoman’s Machir Bay is made at the island’s ‘farm distillery’ with spirit that’s been matured in first fill bourbon barrels for six years, which is married with drops finished in Oloroso sherry butts.
The result is a whisky that delivers a palate-pleasing blend of light summer fruits, touches of vanilla and butterscotch and of course, Islay’s signature peat smoke, which is elegant and unimposing. Non-chill filtered and with a natural honey hue, the 2016 – the fifth release of the Machir Bay – is bottled at a heady 46%ABV in an insightful and elegant expression of Islay single malt.
On the nose expect touches of lemon zest and maritime influences with a hint of sweet spice. The distillery also makes a Sanaig edition that’s predominantly sherry cask finish, as well as a bold 100 percent Islay dram, just in case you’re so inclined.
For more Wines & Spirits inspiration click here.