Kilkerran Heavily Peated Batch No. 13 Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Kilkerran Heavily Peated Batch No. 13 is an intense, full-bodied Campbeltown malt that delivers a remarkable fusion of deep peat smoke, maritime character, and sweet malt richness. Bottled at a commanding 58.6% ABV, this batch offers power and precision in equal measure — a robust yet beautifully balanced whisky that showcases Glengyle Distillery’s mastery of heavily peated spirit.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced at Glengyle Distillery in Campbeltown, Kilkerran embodies old-world Scotch craftsmanship with a modern, expressive edge. The Heavily Peated series demonstrates the distillery’s ability to handle high phenol levels while maintaining clarity and composure in the final spirit.

Key production details for Batch No. 13:

• Heavily Peated Malt: Barley malted to a high ppm delivers profound smoke, offering depth without masking underlying fruit and malt character.

• Traditional Campbeltown Distillation: Classic copper pot stills create a spirit that is oily, textured, and richly aromatic.

• High Proof Bottling — 58.6% ABV:

  • Preserves full intensity of peat and coastal influence

  • Enhances mouthfeel and flavor concentration

  • Offers exceptional flexibility for adding water to reveal new layers

• Thoughtful Cask Maturation: A mix of ex-bourbon and seasoned oak casks impart vanilla creaminess, toasted oak spice, and subtle dried-fruit richness that interlace beautifully with the smoky core.

The result is a whisky that is both fierce and elegant — unmistakably Campbeltown in identity.

Critics Reviews & Professional Impressions

Whisky reviewers consistently highlight Batch No. 13 as one of Kilkerran’s most expressive recent releases:

• Praised for its smoky depth and structural balance, even at near cask strength.

• Admired for showcasing malt sweetness and citrus brightness beneath intense peat.

• Consistently described as bold, oily, maritime, and complex, with a finish that lingers long after the final sip.

• Frequently noted for demonstrating Glengyle’s evolving expertise in high-proof peat-driven whisky.

Critics commonly place Batch No. 13 in the high-80s to low-90s range, reflecting both technical strength and enthusiast appeal.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Bonfire smoke, charred oak, and smoldering driftwood dominate at first, followed by pear, lemon peel, and honeyed malt. Hints of vanilla pod, heather, brine, and roasted nuts build complexity.

Palate:
Explosive and full-bodied at 58.6%. Dense peat smoke leads, joined by smoked barley, sweet apple, treacle, caramelized citrus, and toasted oat. Mid-palate reveals sea spray salinity, cracked pepper, earthy herbs, and a touch of espresso.

Finish:
Long, warm, and resonant. Lingering peat embers, maritime minerality, oak spice, dried fruit, and gentle sweetness persist in a confident, evolving fade.

Quick Overview