St. Kilian Single Cask – Ultra Heavily Peated
When a whisky comes with 135 ppm phenol content and the malt comes exclusively from Glen Esk - a Scottish malting estate that doesn't deliver this kind of extremism to anyone else - then you can expect great things. And this 6-years single malt from an Oloroso sherry hogshead delivers.
Tasting Notes
Nose
What rises from the glass here is not for the faint-hearted. Pure campfire, no moss, no dirt - just glowing hot, dry smoke. You need a little patience behind it - but it's worth it: sultana sweetness, a fresh sugariness and light sherry fruit carefully peek out from behind the fog.
Palate
On the palate, the whisky is initially dry, oily and powerful, with a warm wave of peat that envelops everything. Then red fruits, dried fruits and malty notes set in - an almost classic combination, but served under high pressure. The Oloroso influence is present, but remains in the background: the smoke sets the tone, but the orchestra plays along.
Finish
The finish is - as expected - long, dry and clearly smoky. But there is more: spice, dark chocolate, a hint of leather and - surprisingly - a maritime note reminiscent of seaweed and coastal fog.
Thoughts
Marcel 80/100
This Ultra Heavily Peated is a true powerhouse with heart and soul – smoky to the max, yet still playful and lively. If you’re into fire, spice, and character, here’s a dramatic companion that leaves you wanting more, even if it sometimes feels a bit overpowering.
Sascha 84/100
A technically impressive single cask that shines through its clear balance between intense smoke, Oloroso influences, and fruity nuances. The precise cask selection and structured aroma composition make it an excellent example of German heavy peated whisky, even though the intensity occasionally slightly overshadows the harmony.
Value for Money: Fair
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by St. Kilian. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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84/100Frequently Asked Questions
What does the extremely high phenol content of 135 ppm mean for the taste of the St. Kilian Single Cask – Ultra Heavily Peated?
A phenol content of 135 ppm delivers a very intense smoky note reminiscent of glowing campfire embers. This strong peatiness dominates the flavor, making the whisky especially appealing to lovers of extremely peated malts.
How does the Oloroso Sherry hogshead influence the aromas of this 6-years whisky?
The Oloroso Sherry hogshead imparts subtle notes of dried fruit, red fruit, and a warm raisin sweetness that complement the intense smokiness in the background without overpowering it.
Why is the malt for this whisky sourced exclusively from Glen Esk, and what role does it play in the final product?
Glen Esk is a rarely supplied Scottish malt source known for delivering heavily peated malt. The exclusive use of this malt ensures the extreme phenol level and characteristic intensity of the St. Kilian Single Cask – Ultra Heavily Peated.