Kilchoman has unveiled the second of its two Spring 2021 limited edition releases, PX Sherry Cask Matured. The whisky is a combination of 33 casks, 9 only matured in Pedro Ximénez casks and 24 finished in PX casks for between 12 and 18 months. The 12,000 bottle release will be available from local Kilchoman stockists beginning this week.
Whilst Kilchoman released a number of Pedro Ximénez single casks over the years, this is the first time the Islay distillery has vatted multiple casks together for a global release. The brand spent days in the warehouses tasting endless numbers of casks to find the perfect balance of character, constructing a Scotch that showcases the rich sweet flavors of Pedro Ximénez sherry but also reflects the signature flavors of their 50ppm spirit.
“Pedro Ximénez casks aren’t always the easiest to work with,” said Anthony Wills, Kilchoman Founder and Master Distiller. “That was why we decided on a combination of full maturation and finishing, to balance the distinct PX influence with that of our spirit. I’m delighted with the result; big and bold but with a delightful poise and balance of flavour.”
Having tasted numerous combinations, Anthony and production manager Robin Bignal eventually settled on a vatting of roughly 2/3rds finished casks from 2013 and 1/3rd full maturation casks from 2015. The older casks have more layered depth of character compared to the big-hitting 2015 full maturation casks, combining the two produces a balance of maritime smoke, citrus, berries, and rich dark honey sweetness.
Anthony and Robin settled on a strength of 47.3% ABV after tasting samples at various strengths. At 47.3% “the whisky had more assertiveness and allowed for the natural citrus character of the Kilchoman spirit to shine through,” according to the brand.
The PX Sherry Cask Matured is available from Kilchoman stockists around the world from this week. A limited number of bottles will also be released via the distillery’s website on Wednesday, May 5th, at 2pm Islay time. Bottles for sale from the website are priced at £74.94 ($104 USD) per 70cl bottle (inc VAT), and are limited to one bottle per person.
Last month, Kilchoman unveiled its Fèis Ìle 2021 whisky. Eight 100% Islay casks were selected for this year’s release, two 2011 oloroso sherry butts and six 2012 bourbon barrels.