I'm glad we have this popular baby in our glass again. The last batch we've tasted was #9, and we just loved it (WF 90). As they say, probably a no-brainer. Colour: pale gold. Nose: it's maybe a little more sherried than before, tenser, with more curry, also oak shavings, and ginger... But it's also very briny, seaside-y, smoky, kelpy (what?)... there's some menthol, horseradish, leather, cinchona... And all that works in sync, mind you! With water: swims like Ian Thorpe. Fast and good. Wet dogs (we really owe you, dogs), raw wool, mud, limestone, wet plaster, bandages... All that. Mouth (neat): same feeling, there's rather more oak extracts than in others, more pepper, more curry again... It's really huge, sharp, almost pungent... Grapefruit peel, Jägermeister, ginger, leather, cigar tobacco (chewing your old puro when you're near its end)... With water: the citrus fruits come to the front. Much grass and even wasabi in the back. Finish: long, sharp, very zesty. Comments: totally huge, puts many an Islay to shame as far as texture and body are concerned. Same score all over again.
BOW (90)
Color: A deep, lustrous gold, catching the light in its rich hue.
Nose: An enticing, gentle smoke lifts off the glass, weaving through aromas of ripe yellow stone fruits—mirabelle jam, perhaps. There’s a subtle whiff of paint thinner, coupled with a faint trace of phenolic notes. A complex sweetness emerges, with honeyed hints mingling with ripe exotic fruits. Surprisingly open for its high proof, especially at 54.1%. The addition of water softens the edges, revealing an intriguing, slightly cheesy note reminiscent of some older Highland malts. A hint of herbal freshness rounds it all out.
Palate: This is the embodiment of Springbank—effortlessly balanced, a harmonious interplay of malt and dry citrus flavors. The fruits feel concentrated, yet they’re draped in a warm, syrupy sweetness. Water elevates the experience, intensifying the flavor while introducing a pleasant salty tang. Spices begin to unfold—ginger, pepper, and a touch of chili heat, all dancing across the tongue.
Finish: A medium-length finish that leaves the palate satisfied, with lingering sweetness and spice.
Overall: A superb whisky, showing real complexity and depth. A testament to Springbank’s legendary craftsmanship.
