The latest release in the Peat in Progress series was launched in April 2020: the Kilkerran Heavily Peated Batch n°3. This Campbeltown whisky is matured in a combination of 80% ex-bourbon casks and 20% sherry, bottled at cask strength. It is half a year older than Batch #2.
Kilkerran Heavily Peated ‘Peat in Progress’ (59,7%, OB 2020, Batch #3)
Nose: a big lactic note up front (lemon yoghurt, buttermilk), with stewed peaches and pears, lots of vanilla (cake) and sooty peat. Some earthy sourness (light rhubarb too), espresso beans and just a hint of rubber. A bit of salted caramel and roasted pecans.
Mouth: a bit of an alcoholic kick, which gives way to roasted malt, deep smoky notes and dry ashes, cocoa powder and more coffee. Quite some oily touches. Salted caramel again, with some fruit compote in the background. A light acrid note, with plain oak, black peppercorns and dried nuts. Liquorice.
Finish: very long, on ashes from a smouldering bonfire, lemon peel, salt and something vaguely metallic.
Quite a powerhouse, even a little brutal in fact, I would say it needs to learn some manners before deserving a ‘final’ release. That said, it is very good and entertaining already and quite a no-brainer at just € 40-45, for those who are looking for peat bombs.