The peat level in Kilchoman whisky is carefully controlled and specified by the distiller. In the case of their 100% Islay Edition, they use hand-cut Islay peat and burn it under controlled conditions for a duration of 15 hours. This process ensures consistency in the peating level of the whisky.
When it comes to peat, it is important to understand that it is essentially decomposed vegetation that is commonly found in boggy areas, particularly in Scotland. Peat is used in the malting process of whisky production to impart a distinct smoky flavor and aroma to the spirit. The peat used in Kilchoman's production comes from the island of Islay itself, which is renowned for its peaty characteristics.
To quantify the peat level in whisky, a unit called Phenol Parts Per Million (PPM) is used. This measurement indicates the concentration of phenolic compounds, which are responsible for the smoky and peaty flavors in the whisky. In the case of Kilchoman's 100% Islay Edition, the phenolic level is approximately 20PPM.
It's worth noting that different whisky distilleries may have varying peating levels, and some may even offer different expressions with different levels of peatiness. Kilchoman, as an independent distillery, has the ability to specify the peating level that suits their desired flavor profile.
Having personally visited Kilchoman distillery on the beautiful island of Islay, I can attest to the unique peatiness of their whiskies. The smoky aroma that fills the air around the distillery is a testament to the use of local peat in their production process. It's fascinating to witness the traditional method of hand-cutting the peat and the controlled burning process that takes place.
The 20PPM peat level in Kilchoman's 100% Islay Edition strikes a balance between the peaty characteristics and the other flavors present in the whisky. It allows the smokiness to shine through without overpowering the overall taste profile. Each sip of Kilchoman whisky offers a delightful combination of peat, fruitiness, sweetness, and complexity.
The peat level in Kilchoman whisky, particularly their 100% Islay Edition, is approximately 20PPM. The use of hand-cut Islay peat and controlled burning ensures consistency in the peating process, resulting in a whisky with a distinct smoky and peaty character. Exploring the different expressions of Kilchoman whiskies can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the influence of peat on the flavor profile of the spirit.