My bottle of Springbank 10 didn’t last long, and I was eager to try more from them. The other aged expressions available were a bit much, but this was closer to the 10 in price so I went for it.
Minutia: I believe this to be Batch 19 based on the ABV, which was matured 65% in ex-Bourbon casks and 35% in ex-Sherry casks. Enjoyed neat in a glencairn.
Color: Tawny, 1.4.
Nose: Campbeltown smoke (muted), orange, apricot.
Taste: Smoky malt, caramel, butter, pepper.
Finish: Medium long. Smoky, wood, pepper, gum after a bit.
I enjoyed this so much less than I thought I would. The 10 is pretty much a masterpiece of standard level whisky, so 2 extra years and no dilution should be moreso, but this just wasn’t my cup of tea. It was just kind of overwhelming at first, which was surprising since I’ve had easier times with similarly and more highly proofed expressions. I did grow to appreciate it more over time, and it’s far from bad (not even close), but I don’t think it’s worth the premium over the 10. I won’t be going out of my way to try other batches, but will given a non-bottle purchase opportunity.
I don’t have specific notes about it or scoring, but I ended up trying this with water. The nose came alive and the finish got that delightful Campbeltown note that I loved so much in the 10. Don’t be like me, remember to try water, too.
Score: 83
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