Springbank fans and whisky lovers, rejoice! The Springbank 10-Year-Old Amontillado has just arrived, offering an exciting twist on the distillery’s iconic style. Known for its traditional, hands-on production methods and complex, characterful malts, Springbank brings something new to the table with this special Amontillado cask finish. This limited-edition release combines the distillery’s signature smoky, coastal profile with the rich, nutty influence of Amontillado sherry, resulting in a unique expression that whisky enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing new bottle.
What Makes Springbank 10-Year-Old Amontillado Special?
This release begins as a classic Springbank 10-year-old single malt but gains its distinctive character through additional aging in Amontillado sherry casks. Amontillado, a sherry that lies between the dry, light style of Fino and the richer, more oxidized Oloroso, imparts a beautifully balanced flavor. The result? A whisky that captures Springbank’s coastal, lightly peated base while adding layers of nutty, savory complexity and subtle sweetness from the sherry influence.
Tasting Notes: What to Expect
The Springbank 10-Year-Old Amontillado offers a captivating combination of flavors:
- Nose: On the nose, expect a welcoming mix of coastal sea breeze and earthy peat, combined with dried fruit, toasted almonds, and a touch of caramel.
- Palate: The palate opens up with a burst of salt and smoke, complemented by Amontillado’s signature nutty, slightly savory quality. Hints of dried figs, raisins, and a subtle spice mingle with notes of honey and malt, giving the whisky depth and a well-rounded complexity.
- Finish: The finish is long and warming, with a lingering balance of sherry sweetness, light smoke, and a touch of salinity.
Why Amontillado Casks?
Amontillado casks bring out unique qualities in Springbank’s whisky, balancing the natural coastal, slightly briny character of the spirit with the savory-sweet complexity that Amontillado sherry provides. The wood’s nutty, oxidized qualities add a new layer of flavor without overpowering the whisky’s original profile, creating an experience that’s refined and layered.
A Must-Try for Springbank Enthusiasts and Sherry Cask Lovers
For fans of sherry-finished whiskies, the Springbank 10-Year-Old Amontillado is a unique opportunity to explore a less common cask type. Amontillado finishes are relatively rare, especially for a whisky like Springbank, which typically focuses on bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks. This release allows you to experience a new side of Springbank’s spirit, showcasing how sherry and peat can complement each other in a nuanced and harmonious way.
The Allure of Limited Edition
Springbank’s limited-edition releases are always highly anticipated and tend to sell out quickly, thanks to the distillery’s loyal following and the exceptional quality of their whisky. The 10-Year-Old Amontillado is a unique expression that will be a prized addition to any whisky collection, not just for its rarity but for the memorable flavors it delivers.
Final Thoughts
The Springbank 10-Year-Old Amontillado is more than just a new release—it’s an exploration of how Springbank’s signature profile can evolve with the influence of Amontillado sherry casks. This whisky is an excellent choice for those who enjoy nuanced, layered flavors and appreciate the marriage of peat and sherry. If you’re a fan of Springbank or simply curious about how Amontillado cask maturation enhances a whisky, this bottle is well worth seeking out.