Whisky Review/Tasting: Kilkerran of Glengyle

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Kilkerran whisky is produced at the Glengyle distillery, located in the town of Campbeltown on the Kintyre peninsula, off the west coast of Scotland.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is matured in oak, specifically in Sherrywood, which distinguishes it from the standard maturation process. This particular bottle is part of the "Work in Progress" series, indicating ongoing experimentation with the aging process.
Age Statement: Uncertain. Despite being the fifth release in the "Work in Progress" series, which started with an age statement of 3 years, the exact age of this whisky is not confirmed. It's suggested that the distillery may reserve early casks for longer maturation.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is described as golden, indicating a potentially shorter maturation period or the use of refill Sherry casks. The bottle design features a typical tube with red diagonal writing for the Sherrywood variant and a label indicating it as "Work in Progress" number five.

Nose: Complex with notes of chocolate orange, dark chocolate, marzipan, honey-covered dates, strawberries, and ginger preserve.
Palate: Rich flavors of honey-covered dates, sultanas, black treacle fudge, ginger, and a buttery, oily texture that covers the mouth. The whisky is described as having a sweetness with hints of caramelized dark fruits like raisins or sultanas.
Finish: Medium, well-balanced, and round, with the presence of dark chocolate but no evident peatiness.
Overall: The whisky is uncolored, non-chill filtered, and has an alcohol content of 46% ABV. It's noted for its oiliness, buttery mouthfeel, and absence of bitterness, with a sweetness that becomes more pronounced over time.

The Glengyle distillery, owned by the Mitchell family (also owners of Springbank distillery), was rebuilt to produce Kilkerran whisky. The name "Kilkerran" was chosen due to an existing blended whisky named Glenguile and to honor the historical settlement of Campbeltown.

Kilkerran whisky adds to the rich distilling tradition of Campbeltown, a region once known for its numerous distilleries. The choice of the name "Kilkerran" reflects a deep connection to the local history and geography, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to continuing Campbeltown's whisky legacy.

Horst Luening, the master taster, appreciates the craftsmanship of Kilkerran whisky, especially considering its youth. He notes the complexity of the flavor profile and the well-balanced nature of the whisky, indicating a promising future for further releases from Kilkerran.

Kilkerran whisky is produced at the newly rebuilt Glengyle distillery in Campbeltown, Scotland.
It features a complex flavor profile with a notable absence of peat, matured in Sherrywood casks.
The whisky's name and production honor the historical distilling traditions of Campbeltown.
Despite its relatively young age, Kilkerran is praised for its craftsmanship and balanced flavors.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals with a keen interest in exploring the nuances of single malt Scotch whisky, especially those intrigued by the revival of traditional distilling practices in Campbeltown.
Collectors: Those interested in limited edition or "Work in Progress" series that showcase the evolution of a distillery's product over time.
Beginners: New whisky drinkers might appreciate the absence of peat and the balanced, sweet, and complex flavor profile, making it an accessible entry point into single malt Scotch.