Glengyle Distillery 'Kilkerran' 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Campbeltown, Scotland

Glengyle Distillery 'Kilkerran' 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Campbeltown, Scotland

Overview:
A highly distinctive single malt, the Kilkerran 12 Year Old from Glengyle Distillery is a remarkable expression of Campbeltown's rich whisky heritage. This lightly peated whisky offers a complex and evolving sensory experience, making it a true standout in the world of Scotch.

Product Details:

• ABV: 46%
• Cask Makeup: 70% Bourbon, 30% Sherry
• Region: Campbeltown
• Price: £50
• Critic Rating: 93/100, Whisky Advocate

Sensory Description:
Nose: Notes of sweet confectionery introduce this dram, with Turkish delight, pear drops, and marzipan apparent on the nose. There are hints of subtle peat smoke, reminiscent of toasted marshmallows by a campfire.
Palate: The mouthfeel transitions from sweet to oily, beginning with flavors of orange peel, lime, watermelon, lemon curd, toffee, and sherbet. As it evolves, peat smoke, orange fondant, red apple, gingerbread, and peppery base notes emerge, creating a dynamic and layered profile.
Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with the peat smoke carrying through to campfire embers, accompanied by sweet hints of pecan pie and butterscotch.

Distiller's Background:
A historic Campbeltown distillery reimagined in the 21st century, Glengyle Distillery was originally founded by William Mitchell in 1872 after a family dispute at Springbank Distillery. Despite economic challenges leading to a closure in 1925, the distillery was revived in 2000 by Mitchell’s Glengyle Ltd under Hedley G Wright, a descendant of the original founder. Wright’s dedication to restoring the distillery has played a crucial role in preserving Campbeltown's whisky legacy. The distillery’s renaissance began with its first distillation in 2004, leading to the creation of the acclaimed Kilkerran range.

The Kilkerran Name:
Due to trademark issues, the whisky produced at Glengyle is named Kilkerran, derived from the original Gaelic name of Campbeltown, ‘Ceann Loch Chille Chiarain’. This name reflects the distillery's deep connection to Campbeltown's whisky heritage.

The Campbeltown Region:
Once home to over 30 distilleries, Campbeltown's influence on the whisky world is profound. The resurgence of Glengyle Distillery has been pivotal in maintaining Campbeltown's status as a recognized whisky region. Campbeltown was identified as a protected locality in the Scotch Whisky Regulations of 2009, underscoring its significance in the whisky landscape.

Serving Suggestions:
The Kilkerran 12 Year Old is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full range of flavors. Its complex profile makes it a delightful companion to smoked salmon, aged cheeses, or even a rich, dark chocolate dessert. For optimal enjoyment, serve at a temperature between 60-65°F.