Kilkerran Heavily peated - batch 06

 Whisky Review 

Kilkerran Heavily Peated - batch 06 

(Glengyle distillery) 

ABV: 57.4%

Maturation: ex bourbon and ex sherry

"if you like a smoked, cask strength, complex dram at a decent price, this one is for you!"

Nose: 

There is good balance between the sherry and bourbon cask influence. Those funky, soily, earthy notes are showing prominence along with engine oil, marzipan, grapes and raisins. There isn't much smoke apparent on the nose, but the Campbeltown funk is certainly there. 

Taste:

Thick texture, it gives a coating to the palate. A hit of dried fruits and youthful character. Its very dry and quite bitter, with engine oil again. A little water brings out the maritime character but it doesn't need much at all. Salinity mixed with earthy notes. I'm getting more sherry cask influence on the palate as the sweet tones have taken a back seat, making way for more dried fruits, hazlenut and dark chocolate. The peat smoke finish is wonderful. Heavily Peated? I wouldn't say so. But, its very enjoyable. 

Summary:

This whisky has great depth and complexity. The maritime character is calling out loud enough to gain attention. I'm a Kilkerran fan and this batch 06 heavily peated certainly doesn't disappoint. I think i prefer it without any added water, but either way its a wonderful experience. 

Score: 

7/10

If you like the maritime character of peated Campbeltown whiskies, you will enjoy this. Whilst this is batch 06 and they are now on batch 09, I understand the batch differences are minimal. So if you like a smoked, cask strength, complex dram at a decent price, this one is for you! 

*This whisky was self-purchased and the above review reflects my personal opinions only.