Machir Bay

Machir Bay takes its name from the bay on Islay's western tip, where the ruins of an old church still stand. Anthony Wills founded Kilchoman in 2005 as an independent distillery on a former farm—one of the first new distilleries to open on Islay in decades. Machir Bay is the flagship expression, first released in 2012 as the standard bottling.

The whisky matured primarily in ex-bourbon casks (approximately 90%), with a small portion in Oloroso sherry casks. This combination balances dry, malty character from the bourbon wood against subtle honey and caramel notes from the sherry influence. The peat is present but restrained—a dry, earthy smoke that integrates smoothly rather than dominating.

On the nose and palate, citrus, vanilla, and sweet-smoky tones emerge, with hints of liquorice and a floral note. The finish is long and lingering, with smoke and pepper. This is a well-balanced, approachable peated malt that speaks to both newcomers and seasoned drinkers—proof that quality doesn't require age statements.