Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (92)
BOW (92)
In the serene confines of Campbeltown, where the sea whispers tales of time and tradition, Springbank Distillery unveils a true masterpiece—the Springbank 21 Years Old 2017 Edition. Bottled on the 17th of April 2017, this expression is a testament to the distillery's commitment to complexity, innovation, and the artistry of maturation across an array of cask types.
Maturation Symphony:
The Springbank 21 Years Old 2017 Edition is a result of over two decades of meticulous maturation, where the spirit has been carefully nurtured in a quartet of cask types: Bourbon, Sherry, Port, and Rum. This multifaceted approach to maturation imparts a symphony of flavors, creating a tapestry that reflects the mastery of Springbank's distillers.
A Balanced Composition:
Bottled at a respectful 46%, this expression allows the diverse array of flavors to shine through without the influence of overwhelming alcohol content. The deliberate choice of cask types contributes to a harmonious balance, ensuring that each element in the maturation process is given its rightful place in the final composition.
Tasting Notes:
Nose:
Upon opening a bottle of the Springbank 21 Years Old 2017 Edition, the nose is greeted with a complex bouquet. A marriage of rich vanilla from the Bourbon casks, dark fruits from the Sherry casks, the subtle sweetness of Port, and a hint of tropical allure from the Rum casks intertwine to create an inviting aroma.
Taste:
The palate is a journey through layers of flavor. Toffee and caramel from the Bourbon casks dance with the dried fruit richness of Sherry maturation. The Port casks contribute a nuanced sweetness, and the Rum casks bring forth tropical notes, creating a captivating and evolving tasting experience.
Finish:
The finish is a lingering embrace, echoing the influence of each cask. Oak from the Bourbon, a hint of spice from Sherry, a gentle sweetness from Port, and a subtle tropical warmth from Rum create a finale that lingers, inviting contemplation.
A Limited Artwork:
Released in 2017, the Springbank 21 Years Old Edition is not just a whisky; it is a limited artwork, a canvas painted with the strokes of Bourbon, Sherry, Port, and Rum maturation. Each bottle is a testament to the innovative spirit of Springbank, encapsulating the distillery's dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship.
Conclusion:
The Springbank 21 Years Old 2017 Edition stands as a testament to the diversity and innovation that Springbank Distillery brings to the world of Scotch whisky. With its harmonious blend of Bourbon, Sherry, Port, and Rum maturation, this expression invites enthusiasts to explore the nuanced layers of flavor that unfold with each sip. For those fortunate enough to savor this edition, it is not just a drink; it is an encounter with the alchemy of cask influence, a celebration of complexity, and a moment to be cherished in the rich tapestry of Campbeltown's whisky heritage.
