Whisky Review/Tasting: Springbank 10 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Springbank Distillery, located in Campbeltown, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Springbank utilizes a unique 2.5 times distillation process. The whisky is matured in both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, contributing to its complexity and color.
Age Statement: 10 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky has a slightly darker color for its age, attributed to the ex-sherry casks. The bottle design specifics were not discussed, but Springbank typically uses a simple, traditional style that emphasizes the whisky's heritage.

Balance of Flavors: This whisky presents a complex balance between spiciness and smoothness, with a notable presence of oak and a medium to long aftertaste that is spicy but not bitter.
Unique Characteristics: It features a light smokiness, fruitiness, sweetness, and a notable influence from the cask with hints of vanilla, chocolate, and nuttiness. The use of both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks adds to its complexity.
Comparison: While specific comparisons to other whiskies were not made, the Springbank 10 years could be likened to other Campbeltown malts or lightly peated Islay whiskies due to its balance of smokiness and complexity.

Distillery Visit: Ben Luening visited Springbank Distillery in December 2015, noting the traditional production methods and the close relationship with Glengyle Distillery.
Handmade Process: Springbank prides itself on a largely handmade whisky production process, from malting to bottling, emphasizing the craft behind their whisky.
Historical Closure: Springbank faced closure until 1989 following the British recession but has since stabilized in quality over a decade into production.

Campbeltown Heritage: Springbank is one of the few remaining distilleries in Campbeltown, a region once known as the 'whisky capital of the world'. Its traditional methods and local malting floors highlight its commitment to maintaining this heritage.
Mitchell Corporation: The distillery's ownership and history are tied to the Mitchell family, emphasizing a legacy of whisky production in the region.

"Springbank is a distillery which is famous for its well handmade whisky." - Horst Luening
"It's a complex situation, it's a mixture between spiciness and smoothness." - Ben Luening on the flavor profile.
"It's a really good 10 year old." - Ben Luening, summarizing the quality of the whisky.

Springbank 10 years is a single malt Scotch whisky from Campbeltown, known for its traditional, largely handmade production process.
It features a complex flavor profile with light smokiness, fruitiness, sweetness, and influences from both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
The distillery's history, including a period of closure and revival, adds to the whisky's narrative.
The whisky is appreciated for its balance of spiciness and smoothness, making it a standout 10-year-old malt.

For the Traditionalist: Enthusiasts of traditional Scotch whisky production methods will appreciate Springbank's commitment to handcrafting and local malting.
For the Explorer: Those interested in exploring the unique characteristics of Campbeltown whiskies will find Springbank 10 years a compelling introduction.
For the Flavor Hunter: Individuals seeking a complex, balanced whisky with a mix of smokiness, sweetness, and cask influence will enjoy this offering.