St. Kilian Single Cask – Turf Tail Distillers Cut – Peated

Peaty, Leathery
2024-10-30 As part of the release in early May 2024, St. Kilian presented two different single cask bottlings that stand out for their special focus on smokiness and peatiness. For the Turf Tail Distiller’s Cut, only the spirit from a very specific point in the distillation process is used. According to their own statements, it is the last 250 liters of the heart of the second distillation. They say that at this temperature, the smoky character of the single malt develops particularly intensely. Let’s see how we like this exciting and experimental bottling.
St. Kilian Single Cask – Turf Tail Distillers Cut – Peated
St. Kilian Single Cask – Turf Tail Distillers Cut – Peated (Preview Image Source: St. Kilian)
Single Malt Whisky | No Age Statement | 58,70 % ABV. | 139,80 €/l | St. Kilian Distillery | produced in Germany | Whiskybase ID 252355

Smell

It is immediately clear where the journey is headed: peatiness is front and center here. The smoke is rather cold and iodic. We find typical medicinal and band-aid aromas. The nose is clearly dominated by peat. However, we get less of a smoky character and more of an earthy, coal-like quality. Behind it, sweet aromas of vanilla, light caramel, and a good portion of malt unfold.

Taste

On the palate, the malt is much sweeter and fruitier than initially expected. The smoke envelops the pleasant aromas of the bourbon cask maturation. We find pears, green apples, and a hint of peach. Rounded off with vanilla and malt, we get a creamy yet dry mouthfeel.

Finish

The finish is also rather atypical. Medium to long-lasting, the earthy and slightly chalky notes reappear. Despite the cask strength, there’s no kick here but rather a pleasant balance and wonderful smoothness.

Thoughts

Once again, a bold step in the journey of our adventurous friends from Rüdenau. The Turf Tail Distiller’s Cut is intriguing, unusual, and – to be honest – definitely not for everyone. However, lovers of smoky whiskies will get their money’s worth if they want to try something different. Sweet, fruity, not very spicy, and with a clear focus on the earthy/smoky aroma, it’s truly enjoyable.

Rating: 82/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 79 | Sascha: 84)

Value for Money: 3/5 - Acceptable

Preview Image Source: St. Kilian

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