Springbank 12 Years Old 100° Proof Green Thistle 57% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (91)

Another dark one, most likely for the UK.

Colour: deep amber.

Nose: This one is less immediately meaty and instead veers more towards prune juice, figs and pure earthen floored dunnage warehouse. Lots of hessian sack cloth, fruit loaf, Guinness cake, walnut liqueur and ancient balsamico. Shares a very definite DNA with the Japan version but there are tpeatiness sits quietly underneath everything.

Mouth: feels a little drier, earthier and maybe a tad thinner on the palate than the Japan bottling. Lots of hessian, camphor, salted liquorice, red liquorice, blackcurrant jam, cassis, a touch of tar liqueur, some cooked ham, quince. It’s a big, blustery, drying and rather powerfully earthy sherry. A nice saline edge keeps everything pretty fresh.

Finish: Long, still very earthy but getting more meahese wee subtle differences. Continues with many dried herbs, maraschino cherry, coal dust and chopped dates. A leathery, rather leafy ty now, some burned raisins, caraway and cured meats.

Comments: It’s still terrific whisky, and every inch a big sherried Springbank, it’s just that it struggles a bit in the shadow of that Japanese behemoth.

BOW (92)

This is an old vintage bottle and the closure may have deteriorated. When opening care should be taken. The item is sold as described.

Title: Springbank 12 Years Old 100° Proof Green Thistle: A Sherry-Casked Emissary from the 1990s

Introduction:

Stepping into the realm of Scotch whisky, the Springbank 12 Years Old 100° Proof Green Thistle emerges as a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and the iconic Green Thistle 100° Proof series. Bottled in the 1990s, this expression carries with it the legacy of Springbank Distillery and the allure of Sherry cask maturation.

The Green Thistle Legacy:

The Green Thistle series is an iconic collection from Springbank, known for its distinctive green label adorned with the thistle emblem. The 100° Proof editions within this series are particularly revered for their higher alcohol content, showcasing the robust character of Springbank's spirit.

Cask Maturation:

What sets the Springbank 12 Years Old 100° Proof Green Thistle apart is its maturation in Sherry casks. The marriage of the distillery's signature spirit with the influence of Sherry-soaked wood adds layers of complexity, depth, and a rich, fruity character to the whisky. This interplay of flavors is a testament to the meticulous cask selection and the artistry of the Springbank master distillers.

Strength and Bottling:

With a formidable alcohol content of 57%, this expression is true to the 100° Proof tradition. The higher proof not only amplifies the intensity of flavors but also provides a robust and full-bodied tasting experience. Each sip is a journey through the decades, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship that has made Springbank a revered name in the whisky world.

A Symphony of Tasting Notes:

Nose:
As the Green Thistle is uncorked, the nose is greeted with a symphony of aromas. Rich Sherry influences intertwine with the signature Springbank maritime character, creating a harmonious blend of dried fruits, oak, and a subtle brininess.

Taste:
On the palate, the 12-year maturation unfolds with a cascade of flavors. Expect a robust and full-bodied profile with notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of nuttiness. The Sherry cask influence imparts a velvety mouthfeel that complements the inherent complexity of Springbank's spirit.

Finish:
The finish is enduring and satisfying. Lingering notes of oak, dried fruits, and a touch of brine leave a lasting impression, inviting reflection on the journey through time encapsulated in each bottle.

Conclusion:

The Springbank 12 Years Old 100° Proof Green Thistle is not just a whisky; it is a testament to the heritage, craftsmanship, and dedication of Springbank Distillery. Bottled in the 1990s, this expression is a rare glimpse into a bygone era, offering enthusiasts a chance to savor the culmination of 12 years of maturation in Sherry casks. For those fortunate enough to experience this Green Thistle edition, it is not merely a drink; it is a journey through time and a celebration of the enduring legacy of Springbank.