Review #240: Springbank 12 CS Batch #17 56.2%

Campbeltown - 12- NCF - NCA - $90 - 43%

Springbank is one of three Campbeltown distilleries.  They run three lines, Hazelburn (no peat), Springbank (moderate peat) and Longrow (heavy peat).  For me, the flagship whisky is the Springbank 12 Cask Strength.  I have had the batch 13 and 15 and have enjoyed them both.  Traditionally, the 12 CS is 30% Sherry and 70% bourbon casks.  

Color - Burnished

Nose -  Candied fruit and funk - Green apple peel, apricot, starch, fresh sweaty clothing, rock candy, white grapes

Palate - White fruits, apple juice, caramel, citrus, pine needles - quiet thick mouthfeel

Finish - Medium - Citrus, funk, caramel, white grapes, sweetness, tart fruit

Overall - 7 -  Fun, funky and solid.  This batch of Springbank 12 CS holds up to expectations.  It balances fruit and funk very well.  It is sweeter than past batches, especially on the finish. (Or at least according to my prior notes.)  However, it is not cloying and makes it a bit more drinkable.  An enjoyable dram.  

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Rating system is price influenced as it is based on my shopping decisions when buying a bottle.

10 Best in Show

9 Great Dram for Special Occasions

8 Worthy of consistent spot in my collection

7 Worth picking up a bottle if in the mood

6 I would buy a bottle if it went on sale
5.5 I really enjoyed but it will never be priced at where I would buy a bottle

5 I would drink it happily if offered

4 I would drink it if offered on the rocks

3 Maybe some soda will make this potable

2 I'll Pass

1 Toilet cleaner

Inclusive Ratings

Overall 6.1

Standard Deviation 0.92

Skew 0.66

Kurtosis -0.16