{SAMPLE} Founder's Selection 2003 Kildalton 22 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (15mL)

Founder's Selection 2003 Kildalton 22 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a powerful and characterful Islay release distilled in 2003 and matured for 22 years before bottling. Produced in the Kildalton region of Islay—home to some of the island’s most iconic peated distilleries—this single cask expression beautifully captures the maritime intensity, medicinal complexity and rich smoky depth that have made the region legendary amongst whisky enthusiasts. Bottled at natural cask strength with minimal intervention, this rare release offers an uncompromising exploration of mature Islay whisky at its finest.

Distillery: Kildalton (Secret Islay Distillery)
Bottler: Founder's Selection
Age: 22 Years Old
Vintage: 2003
Cask Type: 2nd Fill Barrel
Cask Number: 120
ABV: 54.1%
Outturn: 260 Bottles

Founder's Selection has earned a reputation for identifying exceptional individual casks that showcase both distillery character and the unique influence of long-term maturation. By focusing on limited releases bottled with integrity and transparency, the series highlights whiskies that offer authenticity, complexity and a genuine sense of place. This Kildalton release is a superb example of the bold yet elegant style that mature Islay whisky can achieve.

Tasting Notes:
An intensely expressive nose opens with oily citrus fruits, bringing vibrant lemon zest, orange blossom and hints of fermented banana. Layers of charcoal-grilled meats, sea spray and maritime saltiness emerge alongside notes of tar, aged leather and subtle tropical fruit. As it develops, nuances of salty farmhouse cheese, polished antique furniture, freshly split rattan and warming spices create remarkable depth and intrigue.

The palate delivers a captivating balance of sweetness and smoke. Rich peat intertwines with honeyed nectar, vanilla sponge cake and stewed orchard fruits, while sweet oranges and creamy malt provide a luxurious texture. Beneath the sweetness lies a distinctly Islay character of burning rubber, medicinal oils, sea salt and subtle antiseptic notes that add complexity without overwhelming the spirit.

The finish is exceptionally long and memorable, evolving through waves of lemon oil, salted caramel and coastal iodine. Lingering notes of oily leather, smouldering firewood, wood ash, tobacco leaf and roasted grains slowly fade, leaving behind a beautifully persistent combination of maritime peat, mature oak and refined smoky elegance.