Product Information:
The Kilkerran 12 year old provides a fitting introduction to the Kilkerran range. Approachable, lightly peated and bottled at their standard bottling strength of 46% ABV, there are characteristic citrus notes and an oiliness on the palate. Matured in 70% Bourbon and 30% Sherry casks. Enticing aromas of sweet confectionery to this dram, turkish delight, pear drop and subtle peat smoke. Palate introduces citrus notes of lemon cheesecake, leather, spice and that signature oilyness of a Campbeltown whisky. There's peat smoke in the finish carries on for ages, with hints of pecan pie and butterscotch.
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 - Turkish Delight, Pear Drop, Campfire
Sweet confectionery introduce this dram, with turkish delight, pear drops and marzipan apparent on the nose. There are hints of subtle peat smoke, like toasted marshmallows by a campfire.
Palate - Citrus, Leather, Pepper
Palate Initially zesty with citrus notes of lemon cheesecake and an oiliness typical of a Campbeltown whisky. Peat smoke, leather bound books and peppery, spicy notes develop.
Finish - Peat Smoke, Embers, Butterscotch
The peat smoke carries through to the finish in campfire embers, with sweet hints of pecan pie and butterscotch.
The Finer Details
Style - Scotch Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Campbeltown
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 46%
