12-year-old Kilkerran single malt from Campbeltown's Glengyle Distillery, which reopened back in 2004. The Kilkerran 12 Year Old is lightly peated and non-chill filtered, and has been matured in a classic combination of bourbon casks sherry casks.
Oak notes are dominant, followed by toasted marshmallows and dried fruit pudding, as well as cherries, marzipan and a hint of peat.
Initially fruity with citrus notes and orange peel, after this: vanilla, butterscotch, honeycomb and digestive biscuits can all be tasted and enjoyed.
Velvet and smooth with lemon meringue, to conclude, there’s an oiliness and a saltiness that you’d expect from a Campbeltown dram.
Having tried and purchased this in Edinburgh at Cadenhead's, it's a beautiful tasting whisky with so many complexities going on. So smooth yet it has a kick too and all at such a bargain price. Get yourself a bottle of something special.
I'm not usually someone who writes reviews but felt I had to on this occasion. Finally managed to get a bottle after all the hype and the rather faultless tasting notes listed above. I must say that the nose is divine but the taste and finish are not to my taste. I understand that this is a 12 year old whisky and never expect miracles but after the generous tasting notes, I expected more. I find this to be extremely spicy and peppery which is something I'm not personally keen on. Velvet and smooth? Anyone actually taste this whilst writing the tasting notes? I have a second bottle available if anyone is struggling to find one :-(
Nose: Immediate grill charcoal. Faint coal smoke. Almost industrial diesel. Not in an overpowering way but in a way that only Campbeltown can make appealing. Himalayan pink salt. Green olives in brine. Mexican lime. Vanilla. Very mild honey. Wild heather. Dry flowers. Love the nose. There’s an old-school oiliness to this that I love. Palate: Touch bitter. But in a good way. Vanilla. Sweet lemon. Touch of oak. Consistent layer of smoke. Wet pebbles. That salt again. Get’s sweeter mid-palate. Butterscotch. And then black pepper pricks. Solid. Finish: Medium to long. Oak. Lindt 90% cocoa. Ceylon black tea.
Hallelujah for an age statement! I bet it's going to be a great whisky!
