Kilkerran Heavily Peated Batch No. 7

Initially, the aroma is quite muted, dominated by ethanol. After some breathing, notes of lemon, vanilla cookies, banana, salt, chocolate, black licorice, and flowers emerge, with a touch of berry. There's smoke, but it doesn't feel intensely peated; the aroma suggests mild to moderate peat, along with a whisper of industrial funk, reminiscent of Campbeltown whiskies. It has a Springbank-like quality. The taste is superior to the nose. It's full-bodied, likely due to the high proof. The peat is more pronounced, now suggesting a solid moderate peat level, with smoke and salt. A faint iodine hint is present, which is welcome for an Islay enthusiast. It reminds me of lemon hard candy. The maturation appears to be primarily in ex-bourbon casks, bringing out plenty of vanilla. It has a malty character, plus some dark fruit and chocolate, implying a portion of Oloroso casks were used. This spirit benefits from time and a little water. It's too strong for me at full proof, and I found my enjoyment increased the longer I sampled it. It seems young, yet it's enjoyable and brings to mind the young whiskies from Ardnamurchan. I'm assigning it the same score as the 12-year expression, though I slightly prefer the 12-year. While I appreciate the stronger peat and higher proof of this bottling, the 12-year offers superior balance with a bit of everything.

This has a light golden straw hue with some legs due to the proof. The initial aroma is a strong hit of clean proof spice, with a touch of vegetation, oats, and jasmine; it's an adequate start. The palate, however, captures attention with creamy lemon curd, vanilla, and mild milk chocolate. It's full-flavored, with a pleasing balance of sweetness and character. It is assertive at bottling strength but very enjoyable. The peat is present throughout but is elegant and integrated, not like an ashy campfire. It would be easily recommended if the price is right, particularly between $80 and $100.

Nose: Phenolic and medicinal, reminiscent of Capilano Yellow Box Honey. Palate: Biscuity, with notes of marshmallows and caramel. Finish: Long with a lemony acidity.

The nose was soothing; peat is the primary taste. It's not overwhelming but offers an intriguing flavor.