Rooted in the wild, windswept coast of Islay, Kilchoman Sanaig is a whisky that speaks of both land and legacy. Named after a nearby rocky inlet on the rugged Atlantic shore, this small-batch expression perfectly marries peat smoke and sherry richness. From one of Scotland’s youngest and most trailblazing distilleries, Sanaig represents Kilchoman’s distinctive approach: farm-to-glass authenticity with a bold, modern twist. It’s a whisky made where the sea meets the smoke and where tradition meets innovation.

Kilchoman Sanaig Islay Single Malt
Brand: Kilchoman | Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ABV: 46% | Origin: Islay, Scotland | Vol: 70cl

Tasting Profile:
Nose: Rich and expressive, waves of smouldering peat, stewed plums, raisins, and cocoa, followed by hints of vanilla, brine, and citrus zest.
Palate: Bold yet elegant, oily and mouthcoating with flavours of dark berries, salted caramel, earthy smoke, and spiced oak. The sherry casks lend depth and sweetness without overshadowing the classic Islay character.
Finish: Long and warming, dried fruits, charred oak, and gentle peat smoke linger with a touch of sea salt and nutmeg.

Production Details:
Sanaig is matured in a high proportion of Oloroso sherry casks, balanced by bourbon barrels to create a rich, layered profile. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, it reflects Kilchoman’s hands-on production approach with floor-malted barley, in-house fermentation, and distillation all done on-site at the family run farm distillery.

Perfect For:
Perfect for those who love Islay peat but crave complexity. Ideal for fireside sipping, evening contemplation, or pairing with dark chocolate or smoked charcuterie. It’s a whisky that rewards slow, thoughtful enjoyment.

Expert Notes:
Sanaig has been praised for its balance of bold peat and rich fruit, making it a standout for those who want more depth than typical peated drams. Often described as the “darker sibling” of Kilchoman’s Machir Bay, it’s a must-try for fans of sherry-cask influence and coastal smoke.

Customer Reviews:
🗣️ "Like a campfire on the beach with a fruit tart in your hand. Seriously complex and delicious."
🗣️ "The sherry and smoke balance is just perfect. I always come back to this one."
🗣️ "Rich, smoky, and full of character, Kilchoman never misses."

Interesting Fact:
Kilchoman is one of the very few distilleries in Scotland that conducts every stage of whisky-making on site, from growing the barley to bottling the spirit, making it a true “grain-to-glass” single malt.

Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy neat in a wide rimmed glass to let the aromas breathe. A few drops of water will open up more fruit and spice. Try pairing with blue cheese, grilled lamb, or fig desserts for a decadent experience.

Distillery Background:
Founded in 2005, Kilchoman is Islay’s first new distillery in over a century and remains independently family-owned. Located on Rockside Farm near Machir Bay, it produces whisky with a strong connection to the island, using local ingredients, traditional methods, and a bold vision for modern Islay whisky.