Springbank 10 yo 1977 / 1987 Sutti Import 57% 75 cl vs Springbank 33 yo 1970 / 2004 The Whisky Fair #2964 47.9%
Springbank 10 yo 1977 / 1987 Sutti Import 57% 75 cl
Tense with a measured golden power. Nose it for an immediate bullseye: A woody, barky petitgrain followed by hot engine oil, salt crusted rocks, a medicinal patchouli. Hints of petrichor, coal and a damp clod of peat bring earthy undertones and this very Springbank-y basket of forgotten fruit in summer is ever present. A leafy bonfire in the neighbor’s field lead to an acerbic and expressive tongue. Undoubtedly a fully realized Springbank, one bursting with vigour and the unbridled energy of youth, but without a hint of any awkward immaturity. Oh, the envy… 90 pts
Springbank 33 yo 1970 / 2004 The Whisky Fair #2964 47.9%
Put expectations aside, this is no huge Springbank. Instead it is one filled with micro-textures levered in tiny balances. Dry earth, thin strands of oily peat, wisps of smoke over calm ocean. Burnt oatcakes over charred copper pans. You need a loupe for this. Coal fires, diesel stained warm engine, warm canned mixed fruit, aniseed, quinine, dry grass, clove, plenty of little oaky touches spanning cream to hard toffees. Burnt ends and saltwater especially on the tongue. Every nuance is tiny and fleeting, yet the whole just lacks the power to carry it confidently, so it comes off as somewhat reticent. Absolutely requires quiet introspection. 91 pts
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