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.