Martine and Jean Donnay established the “Celtic Whisky Compagnie” in 1997 and began distilling in 1999 with Glann ar Mor’s first bottling of unpeated single malt hitting the market in late 2008.
By November 2009, a peated malt was released (30-35 ppm) under the Kornog label, meaning “West Wind” in Breton. The distillery is located on a seafront, hence the name, which translates “At the edge of the sea”.
The packaging further emphasises the locale, featuring a graphic of the H?aux de Br?hat lighthouse. This is a traditional operation that employs small stills, 100% live flame for both the spirit still and the wash still / slow distillation, wooden washbacks and seaside maturation.
Currently the whiskies are just over 3 years old, but already show surprising complexity and balance.
Matured in a bourbon cask for 3 years. Bright pale straw gold. Opens with intense aromas of lanolin / wet wool. Air contact drops the peat a notch bringing forward dried apple, cinnamon and light cocoa. Follows through with an oily, cereal, crisp malt delivery with the finish upping the richness adding cocoa-laced peat, walnut slice and lanolin carrying through to the aftertaste. Exhibits a freshness, balance and staying power that belies its youth. A whisky that’s both delicious and distinctive.