Kirkland Signature Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review.
Kirkland Signature Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review.
Kirkland’s Lowland single malt scotch whiskey immediately caught my attention, not just because it’s a bit of a rare find here in Indiana, but also due to Kirkland’s reputation for solid, well-priced bottlings, often available at Costco. While I’m a big fan of Kirkland’s Highland and Islay releases, this Lowland offering had me curious but cautious, wondering how it would stack up.
Now, this whiskey’s story is pretty classic. It spent most of its time in ex-bourbon barrels like most scotches, but then got finished in ex-sherry casks, something I always appreciate because it usually adds a nice layer of sweetness and complexity. It’s bottled by Alexander Murray & Company, who do a lot of these Kirkland releases, and honestly, they tend to nail it more often than not. I didn’t see a distillery name, which isn’t unusual, but the cask choices and the 46% proof tell me they were aiming for something that hits that sweet spot, rich enough to enjoy neat but smooth enough not to be harsh.
Age Statement: N/A.
ABV: 46%.
Mash bill: 100% barley.
Area of Distillation: Scottland.
Appearance: honey.
On the nose:
On the nose:
You get hit with this lovely, sweet vibe right away. Think apricot, peach, and pear, like the fruit bowl at a fancy brunch. There’s a tiny hint of mustiness, like some overripe fruit, but in a good way—it adds character instead of turning you off. Barley sweetness comes through clearly, with a floral whisper and just a touch of that barrel spice. No harsh edges, which was a relief.
Taste:
This is where it kept me interested. The honey and floral sweetness carry through, kind of like a drizzle of honey over fresh bread. Barley is front and center, but you also get a bit of richness with dark fruits, plums mostly,
plus that light peach and apricot again. There’s this faint earthy smoke, almost like it’s teasing a light peat influence, but it’s subtle and won’t scare off the non-smokers. The sherry finish shows up with a little spice and oak, and just when you think it’s done, there’s a lingering black peppercorn kick that’s actually pretty welcome.
plus that light peach and apricot again. There’s this faint earthy smoke, almost like it’s teasing a light peat influence, but it’s subtle and won’t scare off the non-smokers. The sherry finish shows up with a little spice and oak, and just when you think it’s done, there’s a lingering black peppercorn kick that’s actually pretty welcome.
Finish:
It’s smooth, not overly long, but it sticks around enough to give you a nice caramel and toffee sweetness, with this surprising floral note that reminded me of green tea or cherry blossoms. It’s an unexpected little flourish that I really liked.
Final Thoughts:
Kirkland Lowland single malt whiskey honestly feels like a steal for what you get here. Yeah, it’s a bit young and the finish could stretch out more, but for the price and what’s going on in the glass, it’s punching way above its weight. You can sip it neat, mix it in a cocktail, or just enjoy it as a solid daily drinker. That little hint of earthiness, the fruit, the honey, the spice, it all works together really well. Kirkland has done a nice job here, and if you stumble on a bottle, don’t hesitate. It’s one of those hidden gems that flies under the radar but leaves a good impression.
Rating: B (fairly good).
Cost: $26.99 for 750ml.
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