Sipping a fine whiskey such as Kilchoman while lighting a pipe is a real ritual for slow smoking enthusiasts.
However, choosing the right pipe is essential to fully enjoy this multisensory experience: its shape, the materials it is made of, and its technical characteristics in general can significantly influence the quality of the smoke.
In this article, we will take a look at the Savinelli pipes that best pair with Kilchoman Whisky: from the Bacco Smooth to the Camouflage Rusticated.
Interesting facts about Kilchoman whiskys
Founded in 2005 on the island of Islay by Anthony Wills, Kilchoman is a young distillery but already able to compete with Scotland's historic brands.
Its production philosophy is centered on “from grain to glass,” the idea that every stage of production must take place in-house: from growing barley on its own farms to malting on its own malting floor, to distillation, maturation, and bottling.
Currently, about 20% of the distillery's malt requirements are met by the in-house malting floor, but its goal is to become a “Single Farm Single Malt,” producing only whisky from its own land, 100% made in Islay.
Characteristics and examples of Kilchoman whisky
Kilchoman whisky has a strong peaty character, but is well balanced with sweet nuances, hints of citrus and coastal salinity.
Among the most famous expressions that embody these characteristics are Sanaig, with its sherry influences, and the intense 16-year-old, the result of long maturation in ex-bourbon and red port wine casks.
Kilchoman Sanaig
Sanaig, whose name derives from a rocky inlet near the distillery, is a blend that combines 70% whisky aged in ex-Oloroso sherry casks with 30% aged in ex-bourbon casks.
This whisky, bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered and without additives, won the silver medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Kilchoman 16 Years Old
Kilchoman 16 Years Old is a combination of 21 casks, mostly first-fill ex-Bourbon, with a touch of ex-Oloroso.
After six years in ex-Bourbon casks, the distillate continues to mature for another two years in large vats that previously contained Portuguese red wine with high levels of carbonation.
Bottled at 50% ABV without coloring or chill filtration, this distillate is Kilchoman's most mature single malt in the world, offering an extraordinary balance between peat, wood sweetness, and light sherry notes.
Why choose a Savinelli pipe to pair with Kilchoman Whisky
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For almost 150 years, Savinelli has represented Italian excellence in pipe manufacturing.
The brand's history began in 1876, when Achille Savinelli opened his first shop in the heart of Milan, laying the foundations for a legacy of craftsmanship that has been handed down through three generations.
Over time, the company has combined ancient knowledge with constant research, establishing itself as an international benchmark for quality and innovation in the world of pipes.
Today, the distinctive features of Savinelli pipes include the use of selected briar and rigorous Italian craftsmanship.
In short, thanks to the care taken in the choice of materials and the numerous shapes available, Savinelli pipes are particularly suitable for accompanying complex whiskies such as Kilchoman.
Examples of Savinelli pipes that pair well with Kilchoman Whisky
From the most traditional silhouettes to the most daring styles, Savinelli pipes enhance the peaty and smoky nuances of a distillate such as Kilchoman, transforming every sip into a moment of pure pleasure.
We have selected 10 examples of Savinelli pipes that are ideal for accompanying your Kilchoman whisky.
1. Pipe Savinelli Bacco Smooth - Bent Egg
Savinelli's Bacco Series takes its name from the Roman god of wine and vineyards, but it also pairs well with a strong whiskey. .
A concrete example of this is the 670 KS model, a brown Bent Egg with a nickel mouthpiece insert.
This pipe has a large bowl, which allows for slow and even combustion of full-bodied tobaccos, often favored by lovers of the pipe + whisky combination.
2. Pipe Savinelli Minerva Rusticated - Bent Billiard
Are you looking for an affordable pipe that still retains the refined style that distinguishes Savinelli?
The Model 606, from the Minerva line, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, protector of artists and artisans, could be just what you're looking for.
This Bent Billiard, with a brown rusticated finishing, has a sturdy and ergonomic design, perfect for long sessions in good company with a fine Scotch whisky such as Kilchoman.
3. Pipe Savinelli Paloma Rusticated - Bent Billiard
Paloma means “dove” in Spanish, the eternal symbol of peace and elegance. These characteristics are also embodied in the Savinelli pipe series of the same name.
For example, the Rusticated Bent Billiard (Model 677 KS), a classic Savinelli design, features a rough finish that enhances its personality and a curved bowl that adds harmony to the design.
Thanks to its generous capacity and ability to maintain a constant heat, which enhances the aromas of the tobacco without overpowering them, this pipe is perfect for accompanying complex whiskys such as Kilchoman.
4. Pipe Savinelli Paloma Rusticated - Author
The 320 KS model from the Paloma line features a short shanl, a compact and solid shape, and a black rusticated finishing.
Part of the Author series, this pipe is one of the most unique offerings that Savinelli has to offer smoking enthusiasts.
Made from high-quality materials, it allows you to fully appreciate the rich aromatic bouquet of a Kilchoman whisky, carefully preserving its peaty and citrus notes.
It is the ideal choice for those who want a perfect balance between robust aesthetics and smoking comfort.
5. Pipe Savinelli Bosco Smooth - Dublin
The Model 409 from the Bosco series is a straight Dublin pipe, characterized by a slightly flared bowl.
Thanks to its smooth finish, which enhances the quality of the brown briar wood from which it is made, this pipe allows for even tobacco combustion.
In addition, the straight mouthpiece facilitates a direct draw, perfect for savoring every detail of Kilchoman distillates.
6. Pipe Savinelli Trevi Smooth - Billiard
Trevi pipes, whose name recalls the famous fountain in Rome, a symbol of Italian elegance, are among the most popular and sought-after pipes in the Savinelli range.
Take, for example, the Model 111 KS, a Billiard with a straight mouthpiece and smooth brown finish, made from selected high-quality briar.
The compact bowl guarantees a moderate smoke, whether enjoyed with friends or with a good glass of whisky, while the methacrylate mouthpiece ensures a smooth draw.
7. Pipe Savinelli Vigna Rusticated - Bent Apple
Are you looking for a pipe with a distinctive shape in red or burgundy colors?
You might want to consider Model 642 from the Vigna Series, a Bent Apple embellished with golden aluminum true.
The rusticated finishing of the briar gives this pipe a worn look that perfectly matches the bold character of Kilchoman whisky.
8. Pipe Savinelli Camouflage Rusticated - Bent Apple
The 642 model stands out for its original and bold design, with a rough finish and surface.
This sandblasted pipe offers a secure grip and a comfortable smoking experience thanks to its Bent Apple shape.
It is the perfect model for those who want a pipe with a strong character, capable of enhancing every aromatic nuance.
9. Pipe Savinelli Porto Cervo Rusticated - Author
One of Savinelli's most popular lines in recent years is Porto Cervo, named after the renowned Costa Smeralda resort, synonymous with elegance and luxury in northern Sardinia.
The 320 KS model, in particular, is often found in pipe shops in Italy.
The large bowl and deep, well-defined rustication give the pipe a strong and distinctive character, making it ideal for long smoking sessions paired with complex whiskeys such as Kilchoman.
10. Pipe Savinelli Morellina Rusticated - Prince
If you are looking for a compact pipe for women, the Morellina Rusticata Prince is perfect for you.
The rustication gives it an authentic touch, while the Prince shape makes it ideal for short but intense smokes.
In short, this pipe is perfect for those who want to accompany their whiskey with a more concentrated smoke.
Best Types of Pipes to Pair with Kilchoman Whisky
When choosing a pipe to accompany a good whisky tasting, keep a few characteristics in mind.
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Is the bowl large enough to allow for long, full-bodied smokes?
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Does it have a 6 mm filter to maintain a clean taste without covering the delicate nuances of the distillate?
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Is the mouthpiece made of acrylic or ebonite, ideal materials because they do not alter the aromas of the whiskey?
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Does it have an ergonomic shape that ensures a comfortable grip?
Also, if possible, maintain a light patina inside the bowl to preserve the flavors, and dedicate the pipe exclusively to this pairing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pipe to accompany a complex whiskey such as Kilchoman is essential to enhance every single aromatic nuance, both of the tobacco and the spirit.
Savinelli pipes, with their variety of shapes, finishes, and materials, offer solutions suitable for every smoking style and every moment of tasting.
From classic to more daring models, each of these pipes is designed to enhance the ritual and pleasure of slow smoking, without overpowering the aromas and flavors of the whiskey.
The important thing is to choose carefully and, why not, experiment with different combinations until you find the one that best suits your personal taste.