Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength

I’ll admit that I don’t know much about Springbank. I’ve tried only a few releases on only a few occasions. I usually find myself less captivated by the whisky than my friends or the online reviews. But there’s no denying the distinctive house style, the attention to detail, and the overall craft presentation that they’re known for. With that in mind, I figured it was time for a new bottle. A sherried 12 year old CS will do…

Nose: Sherry, honey, caramel, brine, faint smoke, raisins, oak, sawdust, marzipan, wood polish. Tart, sweet, and inviting.

Palate: Oily mouthfeel. Farmy and fruity. Sherry, smoke, rich caramel, red fruit, and some faint cinnamon.

Finish: Orange rind, marmalade, ginger, smoke, burnt grass, burnt caramel, faint tannins, rich oak, red apples, and honey-drizzled dates. Long, smooth, and beautifully integrated.

I’m surprised at how mellow this is. Given its reasonably high abv, it’s neither big nor bold. Very smooth throughout, without a sharp or biting note to be found. In fact it’s so graceful that I find myself wishing for more of a kick. Regardless, this boasts rich caramel, a nice peaty compliment, and some serious balance. Worth it.

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