Product Information:
Part of their limited core range, Kilkerran 8 year old cask strength is released annually, either as a one or two part release. While previous releases have included full maturations in Bourbon, Port and Sherry, with the latest releases fully matured in Oloroso Sherry giving this release a more spicy dimension.
You are first greeted with soft peat smoke, leather, and sticky toffee. Palate has the signature rich and earthy character of Kilkerran 8 y/o. The palate tastes of thick date syrup, red and black currants and sea spray. As the whisky develops in the glass, you get ashy medicinal smoke, ginger and chocolate oranges. Brilliant.
Item does not come with external tube. Producer Note: “It is our intention to reduce the amount of packaging we use across our group of companies, from Springbank and Kilkerran to William Cadenhead Ltd, and that any we do use is produced and procured as sustainably as possible."
Maker
Glengyle Distillery was originally founded in 1872 by William Mitchell, who had previously run Springbank Distillery with his brother John. After a dispute between the brothers, William Mitchell went on to establish Glengyle Distillery as his own venture. The distillery thrived for several decades before succumbing to economic difficulties and ceasing production in 1925. However, the buildings remained relatively well-maintained over the decades, which set the stage for its reawakening in the 21st century.
In 2000, Mitchell’s Glengyle Ltd purchased the distillery, and after significant renovations, production resumed in 2004 under the guidance of Hedley G. Wright, a great-great nephew of the original founder. The distillery was brought back to life with a dedication to tradition and craftsmanship, focusing on creating high-quality whisky that stayed true to its heritage.
At Glengyle, the philosophy revolves around a combination of traditional craftsmanship and natural processes. This ethos is most evident in the production of Kilkerran Whisky, which is known for its unique style—balanced, approachable, and less peated compared to its original incarnation. By maintaining a commitment to minimal intervention, the distillery creates whisky that genuinely reflects Campbeltown’s terroir, combining the best of both history and innovation.
Distillery
Located in Campbeltown, Glengyle Distillery is one of only three remaining distilleries in this historic whisky-producing region. Once known as the ‘whisky capital of the world’, Campbeltown was home to more than 30 distilleries in the 19th century, but only Springbank, Glen Scotia, and Glengyle remain today.
Glengyle Distillery has a rich history, beginning with the founding of the distillery by William Mitchell in 1872. After its closure in 1925, the distillery’s buildings were preserved and maintained, which allowed for its revitalisation in 2004. The distillery now produces Kilkerran Whisky, a single malt Scotch that embodies the region’s complex maritime character.
The philosophy behind the Kilkerran brand is deeply rooted in the principles of sustainability and respect for nature. The distillery uses traditional methods combined with a modern approach, such as using floor malting from its sister distillery, Springbank, to create a whisky that captures the region’s essence. Kilkerran Whisky offers a classic Campbeltown profile—with light peat, earthy aromas, and a salty finish, creating a distinctive and approachable style that celebrates the unique terroir of the region.
Today, Glengyle Distillery continues to honour its heritage while embracing innovation, ensuring that Kilkerran Whisky remains at the forefront of Scotland’s whisky scene.
Tasting Notes
Nose - Peak Smoke, Leather, Toffee
Notes of soft peat smoke, leather-bound books and sticky toffee pudding are present on the nose.
Palate - Black Currants, Cherries, Iodine
The familiar rich and dirty character of Kilkerran 8 Year Old sherry series is clear to taste. We also get thick date syrup, blackcurrants, cherries, redcurrants and a maritime coastal taste.
Finish - Smoke, Ginger, Chocolate Oranges
As the whisky develops, there are notes of ashy medicinal smoke, ginger and chocolate oranges.
The Finer Details
Style - Scotch Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Campbeltown
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 57.4%
