Springbank Local Barley 16 Years

Whisky Review/Tasting: Springbank Local Barley 16 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: The Springbank 16 years old Local Barley is from Campbeltown, located on the Kintyre peninsula, southwest of Glasgow, Scotland.
  • Type: It is a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky.
  • Distillation and Maturation: The whisky undergoes a triple distillation process. It is matured in a combination of 80% bourbon casks and 20% sherry casks.
  • Age Statement: 16 years.
  • Color and Clarity: The whisky has a natural color, with no coloring added.
  • Bottle Design: The review does not detail the bottle design, but emphasizes the product's local sourcing and limited availability.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a complex balance of sweet, floral, and slightly phenolic flavors.
  • Unique Characteristics: Notable for its local barley source, the flavor profile includes light bourbon touches, raisins, a hint of seaweed, wild herbs, and a sweet honey note.
  • Comparison: The reviewer draws a parallel with the sea flavor reminiscent of other coastal whiskies, though this one is not peated.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Local Production: Emphasizes the local sourcing of barley from Low Mokriemore farm on Kintyre and water from the region, highlighting Springbank's traditional malting floors and kilns.
  • Limited Edition: The release is limited to 9,000 bottles per year, with the potential for variation in yearly releases.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Campbeltown Heritage: The whisky underscores the significance of Campbeltown and the Kintyre peninsula in Scotch whisky production, showcasing the local ingredients and traditional processes.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • Personal Impressions: The reviewer appreciates the whisky's complexity, noting its unique flavor profile that includes a mix of sweet, floral, and slightly phenolic notes.
  • Memorable Quote: "Really a remembrance of a field of flower with bees if you would visualize it."

Summary

  • Springbank 16 years old Local Barley is a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky from Campbeltown.
  • Made with locally sourced barley and water, it undergoes triple distillation and is matured in bourbon and sherry casks.
  • The whisky has a complex flavor profile with sweet, floral, and slight phenolic notes.
  • It emphasizes local production and traditional processes, contributing to its unique character.
  • The release is limited to 9,000 bottles per year, highlighting its exclusivity.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the intricacies of local sourcing and traditional distillation methods will find this whisky particularly appealing.
  • For Collectors: The limited availability and unique yearly variations make it a desirable addition to any collection.
  • For Coastal Whisky Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the subtle sea-influenced flavors, even without peat, will enjoy this whisky's unique profile.