Kilchoman Sanaig Àrd is a bold and robust whisky designed with the discerning Swedish palate in mind. Building on the distillery’s popular core range bottling, Sanaig, this edition has been elevated with a higher concentration and increased alcohol content—hence the name “Àrd,” the Gaelic word for “high.” The result? A confident and intensified sibling to one of Kilchoman’s bestsellers, tailored for those who crave more depth and intensity in their whisky.
A Sherried and Smoky Evolution
Since its introduction to Kilchoman’s core range in 2016, Sanaig has earned a strong reputation among whisky enthusiasts. This expression is crafted from some of the distillery’s finest casks, predominantly first-fill Oloroso sherry barrels, which lend rich, fruity notes and a velvety texture. However, Sanaig Àrd takes things up a notch. Bottled at a higher strength than its predecessor, it concentrates the bold flavors, offering a richer and more powerful experience that aligns with the preferences of Swedish whisky connoisseurs—who are known for their love of big, bold flavors.
Kilchoman’s Singular Approach
Unlike many distilleries on Islay and the Scottish mainland, which primarily produce whisky for blends, Kilchoman is fully dedicated to crafting single malts. This focus allows them to invest heavily in first-fill casks, which contribute significantly more character and intensity to the whisky. Additionally, Kilchoman employs exceptionally long fermentation times—often exceeding 90 hours—leading to a rich, ester-heavy wort that enhances the complexity of the final spirit.
Strength Matters
Bottling whisky at a higher alcohol volume doesn’t just add intensity; it provides flexibility. With less dilution, the flavors remain concentrated, creating a fuller, more textured dram. It also allows whisky lovers to experiment with adding water, unlocking new layers of aroma and taste without sacrificing body or depth.
Crafted for Swedish Whisky Enthusiasts
When Kilchoman set out to develop something extraordinary for the Swedish market, they had a clear goal: to create a whisky with an amplified profile—more smoke, more sherry influence, and more power. The foundation for this project was their sherry-matured Sanaig, a whisky that has been a staple in their lineup since 2016. By increasing the strength and refining the cask selection, they have produced something truly special: a small-batch release that delivers a full-throttle Islay experience with a distinctly Swedish appeal.
Rooted in Islay’s Heritage
Kilchoman takes pride in honoring its Islay origins, often naming its whiskies after local landmarks. Sanaig is named after a rugged inlet just northwest of the distillery, while Kilchoman itself is derived from Gaelic, meaning “Comman’s chapel”—a reference to an early Christian missionary who established a site of worship in the area during the 6th century.
With Kilchoman Sanaig Àrd Small Batch, the distillery has pushed its craft to new heights, offering an immersive taste of Islay’s history and whisky-making excellence. This release isn’t just a whisky; it’s a testament to Kilchoman’s commitment to bold flavors and exceptional craftsmanship—delivering a smoky powerhouse built for those who demand the extraordinary. Systembolaget Artnr: 303-01 70ml 689SEK. Cheers!
