Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch Review: Your Friendly Tasting Guide

As a fan of blended Scotch whiskies, I was thrilled to discover the Kirkland Signature 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky. There’s a lot to appreciate about this affordable yet high-quality offering, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on this hidden gem found at Costco.

This 12-year-old blended Scotch boasts a beautifully smooth texture with a subtle sweetness and no trace of smokiness. Upon taking a whiff, the splendid caramel and vanilla aromas drew me in, while malt notes and a masculine edge provided a solid foundation. Once I tasted it, I was pleasantly surprised by the subtle oak flavor, accompanied by fruity hints of apricots and apples that added complexity to the palate.

Offering exceptional value at its price point, it’s no wonder the Kirkland Signature 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky has earned high recommendations and positive reviews. As someone who enjoys exploring various whiskies, I must say that this one is definitely worth trying!

photo credit: www.costco.com.au

Table of Contents

Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch Overview

Product History

I discovered that Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch is a part of Costco’s Kirkland Signature range, which offers a variety of products, including spirits. The scotch is sourced and bottled by Alexander Murray, a company known for working with various distilleries in Scotland. This particular blended scotch whisky has been matured in oak casks for a minimum of 12 years, providing a unique and distinct taste.

Price Range

At an affordable price point, Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch can be found in a 1.75-liter bottle for around $39.99. With a 40% ABV, this scotch offers both quality and value, making it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy a fine spirit without breaking the bank.

The Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch can be described as having notes of caramel, spice, and a hint of smoky peat. I noticed a smooth, long finish with the scotch, providing a pleasant drinking experience. The scent is inviting, with hints of vanilla, malt, and a masculine edge.

In addition to the 12-year-old blended scotch whisky, Kirkland Signature also offers a Canadian whisky, an Irish whiskey, and other aged scotch options, such as 23-year-old single malt and NAS (No Age Statement) scotch. This variety caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets, further solidifying the value offered by the Kirkland Signature brand.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon opening the Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch, I was greeted with a pleasant aroma that featured hints of honey, dried fruit, and light oak. There was also a subtle sweetness reminiscent of caramel and baked peaches, which contributed to the overall inviting scent.

Flavor

As I took my first sip, the flavors were a delightful mix of fruity and chewy grain characters. The sweetness from the honey and caramel continued, accompanied by the taste of apples and a touch of cinnamon. The blend of spirits brought about undertones of rye, wheat, and corn, which were surprisingly smooth, adding to the complexity of the palate.

Finish

The finish of this blended Scotch was medium in length, with notes of honey on pears and toasted black bread that lingered gently on my tongue. The oak influence from the American oak casks was subtle but present, providing a well-balanced and satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience.

Rating

As a fan of various whiskies, including Speyside favorites like The Macallan and well-known blends like Johnnie Walker Blue, I believe the Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch deserves a solid 9 out of 10 rating for its pleasant aroma, enjoyable flavor, and smooth finish. It may not reach the heights of premium single malts or iconic blends, but for its accessible price point, the quality is commendable. In my opinion, this Scotch is perfect for gatherings or sharing with friends, where its friendly and inviting character will surely be appreciated.

Mixing and Pairing

Best Mixers

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In my experience, Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch works well with a variety of mixers. Because of its smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile without too much smoke, it’s versatile enough to be combined with:

Soda water: For a refreshing, simple option that showcases the whisky’s natural flavor.
Ginger ale: The spiciness of ginger ale pairs beautifully with the sweetness and fruity character of this blended Scotch.
Cola: It may be a classic, but it’s still a favorite – mixing cola with the whisky offers a delightful experience for fans of sweeter, richer mixed drinks.

Cocktail Suggestions

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Aside from the straightforward whisky highball (using soda water), I think there are several other cocktails that can bring out the best in Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch. Here are a few suggestions:

Old Fashioned: Replace the typical bourbon or rye whiskey in the traditional recipe with this Scotch. The result is a beautiful blend of caramel and vanilla notes in a classic cocktail.
Rob Roy: Similar to a Manhattan, but made with Scotch instead of rye/bourbon, the Rob Roy pairs well with the smooth characteristics of Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch.
Whisky Sour: The slight sweetness and fruity hints in the Scotch, combined with lemon juice and a bit of sugar, make for an enjoyable, balanced cocktail.

Food Pairings

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When it comes to food pairings, I find that Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch can complement a wide range of dishes. Here are a few examples:

Cheese: Aged cheddar, Gouda, or other strong cheeses with pleasant nuttiness can be a great match for the whisky’s caramel and fruity qualities.
Dark chocolate: The slight bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts well with the Scotch’s sweetness.
Smoked or grilled meats: The whisky’s subtle oak flavor pairs well with the smoky flavors of barbecued meats.

Conclusion

As a friendly reminder, we’re discussing the Kirkland Signature 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky. After tasting and experiencing this whisky myself, it is evident that it’s a smooth and mildly sweet spirit, which is great for both novices and enthusiasts alike. The lack of smokiness makes it an approachable choice for those who might shy away from peatier scotches.

The Kirkland Signature 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky is an enjoyable addition to any drinker’s collection. Its mild character, interesting flavor profile, and budget-friendly price make it a worthy choice for casual sipping or sharing with friends. I’m glad I had the chance to try it, and I hope you’ll also enjoy this fine Scotch from Costco.

In my journey exploring various whiskies, I have come across some noteworthy reviews and tasting experiences that you may find interesting as well. Here are some of the related posts that I’ve found informative:

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Kirkland 12 Year Blended Scotch Review: Your Friendly Tasting Guide