First Sip Delight – Kilkerran 16 Years Old 2025

Kilkerran 16 Years Old 2025 46%

The moment when bottle is opened, the aromas come rushing out — savoury, meaty tones of jerky, dried plums, and salted fish. Behind that lies a darker, elegant foundation: aged wood, raisins, spices, brown sugar, lavender, and tobacco leaf.

It’s firm, bright, and clean, with just a touch of sophistication.

Given a little time to rest in the glass, more layers unfold: roasted honey, gummy, mint, warming spices, and even a faint whiff of medicated oil. A quirky but charming detail that makes this dram distinctive.

On the palate is lively, with a gentle spiciness that never overwhelms. The texture isn’t particularly oily, but it’s still full-bodied. Flavours of fresh grapes, sweetness with a touch of bitterness, and grape skins lead the way. As it develops, it shifts into malt, fresh bread, and a light acidity, keeping things balanced and engaging.

The finish lingers beautifully, offering delicate notes of wildflowers, milk chocolate, wine gums, and the nostalgic impression of old books or fallen leaves. There’s even a subtle sweetness on the aftertaste — a comforting surprise that elevates the entire experience.

Compared with the 2024 edition, this release returned the tall bottle and blended a higher sherry cask ratio; last year’s mix (Bourbon 70% / Sherry 20% / Rum 10%) was replaced with a simpler but bolder ratio of Bourbon 60% / Sherry 40%. The stronger sherry cask influence shows clearly in the glass, giving this 16-year-old a deeper, more elegant profile.

👉 In short: the 2025 Kilkerran 16 surprises in all the right ways. 😉.