Whisky Review/Tasting: Springbank 21 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Springbank Distillery, Campbeltown, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is matured in ex-bourbon and ex-fino sherry casks, contributing to its unique flavor profile. The use of fino sherry casks, which are not heavily oxidized, results in a lighter color compared to whiskies aged in Oloroso or Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.
Age Statement: 21 years.
Color and Clarity: Lighter in color due to the maturation in ex-fino sherry casks.
Bottle Design: The bottle comes in a high-quality package, with a gold label stating "The Legend Returns." It is presented in a tall box, differing from the typical thin card boxes of other Springbank bottlings, emphasizing its status as a flagship product.

Nose: Creamy, with notes of toffee, maltiness, and a very light smoke. The aroma is reminiscent of freshly picked strawberries and watermelon, offering an intense fruity character.
Palate: Spicy and strong, with a balance of sweetness and a hint of cinnamon. Flavors of sugared almonds, chocolate, and cacao are present, along with a faint bitterness in the background.
Finish: Long, creamy, and slightly smoky.

The Springbank 21 years old is described as a "legend" that had disappeared from shelves for at least a decade before its return in 2014. This return marks a celebration of Victorian whisky production at one of Scotland's most traditional distilleries.
The distillery faced challenges in the early years following its restart in 1989, particularly with securing high-quality casks. However, by the time of this whisky's production (1992 and 1993), cask management had significantly improved, allowing for the creation of this flagship product.

Springbank is celebrated as Scotland's most traditional distillery, with a complete on-site production process from barley soaking to bottling. This commitment to traditional methods and craftsmanship contributes to the whisky's higher price point and its reputation among enthusiasts.
The distillery's location in Campbeltown, a region with a rich whisky production history, adds to the cultural and geographical significance of the Springbank 21 years old.

"This is an excellent package for a legend."
"Springbank, 21 years old, marks a celebration of true Victorian whisky production at Scotland's most traditional distillery."
The reviewer highlights the whisky's creamy nose and the balance of spicy and sweet flavors on the palate, with a particular fondness for the cinnamon notes.

Springbank 21 years old is a single malt Scotch whisky from Campbeltown, matured in ex-bourbon and ex-fino sherry casks.
It features a lighter color and a flavor profile rich in fruity, spicy, and creamy notes.
The whisky is a celebration of traditional Scottish distilling practices, with Springbank Distillery handling the entire production process on-site.
The return of this "legend" to the market is significant both for the distillery's history and for whisky enthusiasts seeking a product that embodies traditional craftsmanship.

Whisky Collectors: Given its story, limited availability, and packaging, this whisky is a must-have for collectors.
Fans of Traditional Scotch: Those who appreciate the craftsmanship of whisky making and the significance of a fully on-site process will find this bottle particularly appealing.
Flavor Chasers: Individuals seeking a unique flavor profile, with a balance of fruitiness, creaminess, and a hint of smoke, will enjoy exploring this whisky.