A fabulous 10 year old Springbank, matured in bourbon casks as well as sherry casks, adding a wonderful depth of flavour. Slightly peated, it marries a complex mixture of maritime notes as well as a fresh and fruity balance. The definition of a Campbeltown classic.
The nose offers up plenty of oak, exotic spices, guava, heather honey and soft smoke.
A full, sweet, creamy palate with hints of smoke, marzipan and cigar boxes.
A smoky finish, trailing off on sweet cider and toasty barley.
I had very high expectations for Springbank 10 given the almost universal praise on whisky forums and youtube reviews. After trying so many disappointing, overhyped whiskies, I was delighted to find that Springbank not only met, but exceeded my great expectations. On the nose, you get stone fruits, rich honey and woody spice notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and mace. Leave it a bit longer and you get some warm menthol/tiger balmy notes. On the tongue there is a rich, sweet arrival that is similar to Glenfarclas 12. I wonder whether this richness in taste is due to the direct firing of the stills. Anyway, this sweetness develops into a gentle throat lozenge warmth before the peat really kicks in and leaves a peppercorn heat on the tongue. Mouthfeel is absolutely gorgeous. Up till now Talisker was far and away the best 10 year old whisky I had, but I think this is richer and more complex. I still prefer Talisker because its flavour profile appeals to me more, but the quality of Springbank cannot be ignored.
I feel that the flavour is very harsh,compared with say, Glenfiddich or many other fine Scotch Whiskeys.
Light peat smoke, savory and sweet, flavor overload!
Excellent, and I mean EXCELLENT, for a 10yr. Very well balanced and everything is there, from peat, smoke, salt, fruit, etc. A must try.
When I think of Malt ? this is the benchmark. This has everything peat, smoke, salt, fruit and a totally balanced dram from start to finish. Iechyd da.
