The original Glengyle Distillery was founded by William Mitchell in 1872 and remained under family ownership until 1919. It was sold to the West Highland Malt Distillers conglomerate but closed in 1925 due to the economic downturn caused by Prohibition. After lying silent for 75 years, the distillery was purchased and revived by J&A Mitchell in 2000. The Mitchell dynasty, which also owns Springbank Distillery and W.M. Cadenhead’s, one of Scotland's oldest independent whisky bottlers, reopened Glengyle in 2004. The first Kilkerran single malt was released in 2009, marking the first new distillery in Campbeltown in 125 years.

Production

The Glengyle Distillery operates with a production capacity of around 750,000 liters of alcohol per year, although it currently produces about 60,000 liters annually. Kilkerran whiskies are distilled twice, slightly smoky, and made without chill filtration to retain their natural aromatic oils. The Kilkerran 12-year-old is matured 70% in ex-Bourbon casks and 30% in ex-Sherry casks, while the Kilkerran 8-year-old Cask Strength offers a complex and mature profile despite its youth.

House Style

Kilkerran whiskies are characterized by complex maritime notes, light salt, and delicate peat that tends towards earthy aromas. The Kilkerran 12-year-old presents a confrontational dram with clear oak notes, burnt almonds, vanilla sauce, hot cherries, raisins, and earthy peat. The Kilkerran 8-year-old Cask Strength features citrus, salted almonds, green malt, yeast dough, and lemongrass, likened to Clynelish on steroids.

Revival and Modern Era

The revival of Glengyle Distillery was driven by Hedley G. Wright, great-great-nephew of the original founder, William Mitchell. The distillery was rebuilt with modern equipment, including a Boby mill from Craigellachie and stills from the now-lost Ben Wyvis distillery. Glengyle has been producing whisky again since 2004, ensuring Campbeltown's status as a recognized whisky region.

Kilkerran Brand

The Kilkerran name was chosen due to the existing use of the Glengyle brand name by Bloch Bros, owners of Glen Scotia. The name Kilkerran, derived from "Ceann Loch Cille Chiarain," honors the original settlement where Saint Kerran established his religious cell, now the site of Campbeltown.

Production and Releases

Glengyle operates primarily "on the side" by Springbank Distillery employees, producing limited edition releases of Kilkerran whiskies. The distillery conducts various experiments, including different barrel maturations and peating levels, with triple and even quadruple distilled whiskies awaiting release. The annual Work-in-Progress series showcases the evolving character of Kilkerran, with each release highlighting different maturation styles.