Springbank 1993/2012 Malts of Scotland

The 14 Year Old Springbank that was launched last spring by MoS could not really convince me, so I approach this bottling with trepidation, but also renewed hope. After all, it is another cask type and a different age. Strangely enough, it is the same strength, 51,5% ABV.

Hmmm, the nose is special to say the least. On the one hand some nice sweetness as if from peach, rhubarb and mirabelles. On the other hand some grassy and nutty notes. Roasted almonds and nut oil. But this too has a big helping of gyproc in it. Slight smell of diesel. Leave it for a while, to breath. Does wonders. It then gets fruitier and nicely waxy. Adding water makes it sweeter, with hay in the lead.

It glides smoothly and creamily over the taste buds. The sweetness becomes even more so: fresh cherries! But also a wonderful coastal side. Citrus (grapefruit and oranges) and salt take over, perfectly balanced with the slightly drying oak. Nicely spiced, too, on liquorice and ginger. A pinch of white pepper and a hint of peat. After adding some water, the coastal side evaporates and turns it into a veritable fruit basket.

The finish is long and sweet, with the oak in a supporting capacity.

At first whiff, I was a bit worried, but my fear was unfounded. This is a won-der-ful Springbank! And 110 EUR is a steal for a 21 Year Old Springbank.

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