This venerable whiskey is reminiscent of the Springbank 25 year olds of the early 1990s, and so we believe the cask is one seasoned in the old style, a rare find in today’s market. Characteristic of Campbeltown whiskeys, salt dominates on the nose, followed closely by the rich fruitiness notable in Springbank whiskey, offering up dried apricots and spiced pear. Peaty notes creep up slowly, as the coastal style makes an impact with smoky, chocolate rich notes on the palate. A rich, oily middle and a long finish, the richness complemented by lighter lemon notes and barley sugar.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Anyone who remembers the old Springbank 25-year-olds of the early 1990s will recognise this aroma as a direct descendent – indeed it is near enough identical in both weight and character. The huge, nuggety oak is faultless (this must have come from a cask which had been seasoned in the old – virtually lost – style). Salt dominates but there are dried apricots and spiced pear, too. Meanwhile the vaguest of peaty notes (and I mean the odd atom here and there!) teases away as a barely audible background noise, which automatically becomes louder the moment you spot it.
Palate: A malt on the threshold of perhaps dallying too closely with the oak. But that coastal-style bite makes just the right contact with the salty tannins and cocoa laden phenol to make a course for more complex and satisfying port. Just enough oil makes the middle rich and promises a long finale.
Finish: Drier, as is to be expected, as the tannins raise their game. Still salty, but a little barley sugar and lemon juice lightens the intensity, though – happily, by not too much; the residual oils ensure the finish is of extraordinary length.
