Nose: Through aromas of bitter marmalade, blueberries and earthy malt comes ginger in syrup and Werther’s Originals. Salted gammon and salami tones emerge with thick BBQ char and burnt festive spice creating a meaty, smoky undertone.
Palate: Black fruits, dark chocolate and toasted nut appear initially. The spice is more refined, with aromatic cinnamon, among some wood smoke. Tanned leather, mulch and oaky tannins blend with liquorice and old Chartreuse underneath supplying the classic funky distillery character.
Finish: Dry, earthy and with a touch of salinity and jammy dried fruit.
Overall: Springbank fans know what they like – and this is it. Don’t pass it up.