This is the new batch of Springbank 15 Year Old, the one with the reworked green label.
Springbank 15 yo
(46%, OB 2017)
Nose: the dirtier side of Springbank, with hot engines, lots of soaked porridge, wet wool and one or two struck matchstick heads. Mineral hints, chalk, a little aspirin. Also hazelnuts and vague hints of raisin sweetness and toffee. Some leather and heady pepper.
Mouth: oily, with a classic combination of lemon and salt. Zesty fruits, more creamy fruits in the background. Back to minerals, ink and more brine. Whiffs of exotic fruits too. Faint metallic notes and more smoke than the nose suggested. Lapsang and dark chocolate. Pepper and nuts.
Finish: quite long, with slightly bitter mineral notes, warm leathery oak and brine.
It may have improved a little, but the 15 is still not my favourite Springbank. Both the 10 Years and 12 Years are better in my book. It’s just a matter of preferences though – it does fit the distillery’s profile. Around € 75 (or get a sample first?).
Score: 84/100