Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 26th Release

Springbank's twelve year old cask strength edition has been on the market for about twelve years. Releases have not always been to schedule. In some years, just one bottling was offered. Due to its growing popularity, Springbank has settled on two annual releases. Batch 26 is the second offering for 2024 and comes matured in 60% bourbon casks, 35% sherry casks and 5% rum casks. Oily, sweet peat and rich barley combine in what is for many the definitive bottling from this distillery, preferred even over older age statements. Always a big whisky, it's reported that the deeper colour indicates they're now using more fresh, first-fill sherry, which should further up the flavour profile. 56.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... A beauty and not something to be rushed. I have a couple of open editions from previous years and I considered a comparison, but what’s the point? It’s not like we can go out and choose which to pick up. Each batch is a wee bit different, sure, but they’re all on a similar theme and every one is something to cherish. Even the ‘lesser’ celebrated batches are excellent and always interesting; bold and full on... Something special. - dramface.com

Notes from the producers... Nose: Toffee apple sweetness kicks off this cask strength whisky, along with notes of parma ham, hazelnut and marzipan. Palate: Rich and syrupy on the palate, there are notes of tinned peaches, fruit syrup, honeycomb and milk chocolate. Finish: Subtle peat smoke emerges in the finish, along with notes of heather honey and orange rind.