Kirkland Signature 16-Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky was bottled in 2024 by Alexander Murray & Co. for Costco. Aged 16 years, it was matured in bourbon casks and finished in Oloroso sherry casks. Bottled at 46% ABV in a 750 ml format.
It reminds me of Clynelish, though that’s highly unlikely now. Drinks older than it is, with a nice weight to it. The sherry influence is pretty mild, and I could readily believe it was first-fill bourbon. Which would explain the oak. A nice surprise that punches above its weight. I could easily take it for a much more expensive bottle
The palate is oak-driven and chocolaty, with dried figs, raisins, cherries, blueberries, candied ginger, cloves, black pepper, and almonds. A supple, moreish finish with dark chocolate and lengthy polished oak.
The whole affair is just a bit too flabby for Speyside, I think, leaving me to wonder if this doesn’t hail from somewhere a bit further afield and without a ton of notoriety — Glen Garioch, Glencadam, or Deanston, even — although it’s worth noting that Murray did produce a 16 year old Dailuaine for Costco last year.
