Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:35 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Kilkerran 12 vs Springbank 10 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Single Malt is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Kilkerran 12 vs Springbank 10: Comparison
Kilkerran 12: A rich tapestry of marzipan, pineapple, and vanilla; smooth with vanilla, toffee, and honey on the palate, finishing with honey and ginger. A delightful dram.
Springbank 10: A unique blend of oak, ripe fruit, and subtle smoke on the nose; malt, citrus, and brine on the palate, with a smoky, caramel finish. Intriguing and complex.
Verdict: Both Kilkerran 12 and Springbank 10 are exceptional expressions of their craft, each offering a distinct journey through Scotland’s whisky regions. Kilkerran 12 delights with its blend of sweetness and subtle smoke, making it an excellent choice for those seeking depth without overwhelming peat. Springbank 10, with its unique mix of maritime notes and smokiness, appeals to those in search of complexity and a distinctive flavor profile, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Single Malts
Kilkerran 12: A Delightful Dram for Under £50
- Nose: Marzipan, pineapple, vanilla, dates
- Palate: Vanilla, toffee, honey, orange
- Finish: Honey, orange, ginger
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Talisker 10
Kilkerran 12 isn’t just a whisky, it’s an experience. This single malt offers a simple yet robust flavor profile that won’t overwhelm your palate, making it a great choice for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Let’s raise a glass and explore:
Aroma: Imagine opening a box of marzipan and fresh pineapple, with hints of vanilla, dates, and a whisper of smoke tickling your nose. Intriguing, right?
Taste: Brace yourself for a luxuriously oily mouthfeel as flavors of vanilla, toffee, honey, and orange dance on your tongue. A subtle touch of smoke adds depth without overpowering the sweetness. Think dessert with a mysterious wink.
Finish: This dram warms you up with honey, orange, ginger, and a gentle kick of black pepper. Like embers fading, leaving a satisfying and complex warmth behind.
Water Wonders: Add a splash for toffee and oak to emerge, elevating the entire experience.
My Top Pick: Not just a personal favorite, I believe Kilkerran 12 is one of the best 12-year-old single malts around. And the best part? You can enjoy this gem for under £50 in Britain!
Kilkerran 12 Facts:
- Aged for 12 years, marrying flavors from 70% bourbon and 30% sherry casks.
- No artificial coloring or chill-filtering, keeping it natural and delicious.
- Crafted at the historic Glengyle Distillery, rebooted in 2004 after an 80-year slumber.
- Named after Saint Kieran, one of the Irish Apostles, adding a touch of history to each sip.
Ready for a simple yet satisfying whisky adventure? Look no further than Kilkerran 12. Its delightful flavors, exceptional value, and rich history make it a dram worth discovering.
Springbank 10: Beyond Speyside, Beyond Islay, Into Intrigue
- Nose: Oak, baking spice, ripe fruit, honey, smoke
- Palate: Malt, citrus, berries, brine, marzipan
- Finish: Smoke, toasted barley, caramel
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Ardbeg 10
Springbank 10 isn’t your typical Scotch. It defies easy categorization, offering a unique journey for curious whisky enthusiasts. Let’s delve in:
Aroma: Dive into a warm hug of oak, baking spices, ripe fruits, honey, and a whisper of smoke. Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with autumnal delights.
Taste: Prepare for a smooth, creamy wave that’s full-bodied and satisfying. Malt and citrus notes lead the way, followed by sweet berries, a hint of brine, and a touch of marzipan. Think sophisticated dessert with a savory twist.
Finish: The smoke emerges gently, leaving a lasting impression of toasted barley and caramel. Like embers fading, leaving warmth and complexity.
Beyond the Usual: Smooth and easy-drinking, Springbank 10 offers a subtle smokiness compared to powerhouse Islay malts. Yet, it boasts more intrigue than typical Speyside drams.
Worth the Price? While pricier than some 10-year-olds, there’s value in its uniqueness. Consider Benromach for a similar experience at a lower cost.
A Legacy in Every Bottle: Springbank hails from Campbeltown, a whisky region with a rich history but few remaining players. As a family-owned business since 1828, Springbank handles everything in-house, from malting to bottling, making each sip a testament to tradition.
Springbank 10 Facts:
- Aged 10 years in both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, infusing complex flavors.
- Unique peat-drying method combines smoke and hot air, creating its signature style.
- Distilled 2.5 times for extra smoothness and character.
- Unfiltered and uncolored, showcasing its natural beauty.
Ready to explore beyond the expected? Springbank 10 might be your next whisky adventure. Its unique heritage, intriguing flavors, and subtle smokiness offer a journey for those seeking something special.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate:
| Whisky | United States | Britain |
| Kilkerran 12 | $94 | £48 |
| Springbank 10 | $82 | £46 |