Glen Keith whiskey is not typically known for being peaty. In fact, its style is usually described as grassy and light. However, there are two experimental variations of Glen Keith called Craigduff and Glenisla that were made in the 1970s which do have a peaty character.
Having had the opportunity to taste these experimental peated Glen Keiths, I can say that they are indeed more bold in character compared to the traditional Glen Keith expression. The peatiness adds a smoky and earthy dimension to the whisky, which is quite unique for Glen Keith.
When I first tried the Craigduff, I was pleasantly surprised by the presence of peat on the nose. It was not overpowering, but rather a subtle hint that added depth to the whisky. On the palate, the peat became more prominent, intertwining with the fruity and grassy notes that are typical of Glen Keith. The finish was long and smoky, leaving a lingering warmth on the tongue.
The Glenisla, on the other hand, had a more pronounced peat influence. The smoky aromas hit me as soon as I nosed the whisky, and it continued to evolve on the palate. The peat was intertwined with notes of dark chocolate and spices, creating a complex and robust flavor profile. The finish was rich and lingering, with the peat gradually fading away, leaving a satisfying warmth.
It's worth noting that these experimental peated Glen Keiths are quite rare, as they were only produced for a short period of time in the 1970s. Bottlings of both Craigduff and Glenisla have recently been released by Signatory, allowing whisky enthusiasts to experience this unique peated expression of Glen Keith.
While Glen Keith whiskey is not typically peaty, the experimental variations of Craigduff and Glenisla offer a bolder and more smoky character. These whiskies provide a fascinating glimpse into the versatility of Glen Keith and are a must-try for peat lovers looking for something different.