Whisky Review/Tasting: Springbank Green 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Springbank Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is matured in bourbon casks, likely second-fill, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to traditional, manual processes. Every part of the production process, from malting to bottling, is carried out at the distillery.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color and Clarity: Light in color, suggesting maturation in refill casks.
Bottle Design: Noted for its green label and green cardboard box, which signifies the ecological, or "green," approach to barley cultivation.

General Flavor: Light smoke with a peat level between 7 and 15 ppm, offering a distinct smokiness.
Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a balance between smokiness, light fruitiness, and coastal, salty aromas. Over time, the fruitiness intensifies, evolving into notes of peaches and nectarines, accompanied by an oiliness and creaminess.
Unique Characteristics: The Springbank Green 12 years is distinguished by its ecological production methods and the comprehensive, manual labor-intensive process at the distillery. It is free of artificial coloring and not chill-filtered, which may cause a natural haze at cold temperatures.

Production Process: Springbank is unique in Scotland for carrying out every part of the whisky production process on-site, from malting to bottling. This includes the steeping, germination, and drying of the barley in the kiln.
Green Barley: The "green" in Springbank Green refers to the ecologically grown barley used in the whisky, highlighting the distillery's commitment to sustainable practices.

Distillery Tradition: Springbank's traditional, hands-on approach to whisky production and its commitment to doing everything in-house, including the use of green barley, underscores its dedication to quality and sustainability.
Coastal Influence: The whisky's coastal, slightly salty aroma reflects its geographical origin and the influence of the local climate and environment on its flavor profile.

Horst Luening, the master taster of whisky.com, describes the Springbank Green 12 years as having a "light smoke" and a flavor profile that is "light, full, and aromatic," with a "long and smooth aftertaste."

Springbank Green 12 years is a single malt Scotch whisky characterized by its light color, smoky flavor with a peat level between 7 and 15 ppm, and a balance of smokiness, light fruitiness, and coastal, salty aromas.
The whisky is produced using ecologically grown barley and matured in bourbon casks, likely second-fill.
Springbank Distillery's commitment to traditional, manual processes and sustainability is evident in every aspect of the whisky's production.
The whisky is free of artificial coloring and not chill-filtered, enhancing its natural characteristics.
The flavor profile evolves over time, with fruitiness becoming more pronounced and complemented by an oiliness and creaminess.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in traditional, manual whisky production methods and sustainable practices will appreciate the craftsmanship behind Springbank Green 12 years.
For Smoky Whisky Lovers: Individuals who enjoy a distinct but not overpowering smokiness in their whisky will find the Springbank Green 12 years appealing.
For Eco-conscious Consumers: Those who value ecological sustainability in their whisky choices will be drawn to the use of green barley in this whisky.