Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% 2011

Distillery	Springbank
Bottler	OB
Serie	Local Barley
Bottled for
Distilled date	05.2011
Bottling date	12.12.2022
Country	Scotland
Region	Campbeltown
Age	11
Cask Type	55% sherry 35 % bourbon 10 % rum
Cask Number	Bottle code 22/242
Alcohol percentage	55.1
Volume	0,70
Condition	In original container
Label	Perfect
Stock	0

Professional reviews

Malt Fascination (90)

With it being Liberation Day in the Netherlands, I decided to liberate the last of my sample of this from its bottle. I was lucky enough to do a bottle-share with this, after winning a ballot for it at AceDrinks. Of course, unlike many slightly more expensive shares, this one filled up really fast.

This is the first Local Barley release that also contains a bit of rum matured whisky in it. Before it was mostly Bourbon, with an occasional Sherry side step. The barley for this version came from Glencraigs farm and was made from the Belgravia strain. None of these things are new, but that doesn’t necessarily mean a thing.

I tried to keep my fanaticism in check when tasting this. Just to get to a more accurate rating instead of being simply too enthusiastic about the new Local Barley release existing, and being available.

Sniff:
Funky spirit with quite a bite. There’s a sweetness that’s new to the series. A syrupy sweetness with sugary fruit. A mountain of straw and barley.

Sip:
Barley, straw, coastal salinity. Hessian, old paper and wet attics. Sugary fruit, boiled candy. A whiff of oily smoke too.

Swallow:
A funky finish, lots of salinity, lots of barley. Not overly long, but intense. A bit of oily smoke too.

At first I was pretty thrilled with this one. The very straight forward approach of very clean Springbank with a huge focus on the barley. Then, I started doubting whether it was actually that good and if I wasn’t being blinded by my enthusiasm.

Luckily, there was something left in the bottle and I sat down to drink that too, the day after the initial tasting. I gave it a lot of wiggle room, with me drinking a glass in the sun, when lighting the barbecue. Then, at night, when doing something else. And the conclusion is that I wasn’t too enthusiastic. This is absolutely gorgeous whisky.

BOW (89)

In the realm of Scotch whisky, Springbank has garnered a reputation for producing exceptional and distinctive expressions. Among its esteemed releases, the Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% Bottled 2022 stands out as a testament to the distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. With its unique characteristics and high alcohol percentage, this whisky offers a truly remarkable drinking experience. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of this limited edition bottling.

Local Barley and Heritage:
The Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% Bottled 2022 pays homage to the distillery's rich heritage and the importance of locally sourced barley. Distilled from barley grown in the surrounding region, this expression embodies the essence of its terroir. The use of local barley adds a distinct depth of flavor and a sense of connection to the land, making it a truly special whisky that reflects the unique character of Springbank.

Maturation and Complexity:
After distillation, this whisky was matured for 11 years in a carefully selected combination of casks. The lengthy maturation process has allowed the spirit to develop a complexity that unfolds with every sip. The interplay of flavors and aromas is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that Springbank is known for. From the first taste to the lingering finish, each element of this whisky tells a story of craftsmanship and expertise.

Tasting Notes:
The Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% Bottled 2022 offers a sensory journey that delights the palate. On the nose, notes of honeyed malt, ripe fruits, and a hint of coastal brine greet the senses. The first sip reveals a harmonious combination of rich toffee, creamy vanilla, and a subtle smokiness. As the flavors evolve, hints of oak spice and dried fruits emerge, creating a complex and layered taste profile. The high alcohol percentage further amplifies the intensity of the flavors, adding depth and robustness to the overall experience.

Limited Edition Rarity:
As a limited edition bottling, the Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% Bottled 2022 holds a special place in the hearts of whisky collectors and enthusiasts. Its scarcity and unique characteristics make it a prized addition to any whisky collection. Owning a bottle of this expression is not only a testament to one's appreciation for exceptional whisky, but also an opportunity to savor a truly distinctive and sought-after release from the revered Springbank distillery.

Conclusion:
The Springbank 11 Years Old Local Barley 55.1% Bottled 2022 is a whisky that exemplifies the distinct character and craftsmanship for which Springbank is renowned. From the locally sourced barley to the lengthy maturation process, every element contributes to its unique flavor profile and exceptional quality. With each sip, whisky enthusiasts are transported to the rugged coastline of Campbeltown, where the spirit of Springbank is born. This limited edition bottling is a true gem in the whisky world, offering an unforgettable drinking experience that embodies the essence of Springbank's rich heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence.