Springbank 15 Year

Deep gold in the glass, with copper highlights, very dense. On the nose a light alcoholic puncture (which vanishes almost immediately) leads the way to the sherried notes of the whisky: raisins, marzipan, a pinch of vanilla. Initially a little closed, to let it breathe it reveals a splash of (sea) salt accompanied by dark chocolate and spices, and a vinous, almost marshalate profile is amalgamated. The palate is immediately intriguing: a sweetly smoky mouth slips into the mouth, an elegant cherry and chocolate paste with a clear peppery connotation. Candied fruit (orange and, Behold!, cherry), still marzipan and that vinous and marsala profile perceived by the nose which becomes more decisive and fuller here. The smoke is really a hint, a drizzle of peat that curls on the flavors giving an extra twist. The alcoholic strength is perfect: the more it would have been intrusive, the less it would have softened the aromas. The finish is long, the tannic and vinous part is the master with the memory of Mon Chéri.

Nose: light, smoky, buttery, floral Taste: light smoke, medicinal, carbon, hint of juniper, earthy, citrus—orange flavoring Finish: pleasant, dry finish

NOSE: Flowers, peanuts, dates, toffee, salted pretzels. PALATE: Hot for 46%. Dark burnt caramel and blood orange. Clove spice. Pleasing milk chocolate finish. OVERALL: Very different from the 10. The nose is heavy and dark from sherry casks. The salty twang is still there to keep it Springbank.