Springbank Local Barley 11 Year Old 2011 Abv 55.1%

Description

“Springbank Local Barley 11 Year Old 2011”release was a highlight for many whisky enthusiasts.

Cask Maturation: This is where this 11-year-old release offered a unique twist within the Local Barley series, featuring a diverse cask combination:

• 55% ex-Sherry casks
• 35% ex-Bourbon casks
• 10% ex-Rum casks The inclusion of a significant proportion of sherry and, notably, rum casks, was a new element for the Local Barley series at the time, adding a distinct layer of complexity.

Bottling Date: December 12, 2022 (making it an 11-year-old when bottled, and released in early 2023 for most markets)

Barley Source: This whisky was made usingBelgravia barley, which was grown atGlencraigs Farm, a local farm situated very close to the distillery in Campbeltown. The “Local Barley” series emphasizes the use of barley from nearby farms to showcase the concept of terroir.

Limited Production: Only15,000 bottles were released worldwide. While a larger outturn than some very limited Springbank releases, it still sold out quickly due to high demand.

Springbank local barley 11 year old 2011 is generally praised for its complexity and the interesting interplay of the different cask influences, while still retaining the core Springbank character.

• Nose: Expect a lively and complex aroma. Reviewers often find notes of rich maltiness, cereal, and white pepper, alongside sweeter elements like chocolate, warm barbecued orange slices, and a touch of lemon and lime zest. The rum influence can bring subtle tropical fruits and a unique sweetness, while the classic Springbank “funk” (hints of dunnage warehouse, maritime salinity, and a slight earthiness) is usually present.
• Palate: The mouthfeel is a standout feature, often described as full-bodied, rich, oily, and malty. Flavors include milk chocolate, creamy vanilla, and a continuation of the tropical fruit notes from the nose. There can also be hints of rhubarb, and the characteristic earthy, musty dunnage warehouse notes that define Springbank. The high ABV provides a warming spice.
• Finish: Typically medium-long to long, with the salty notes from the nose often returning. The fruitiness and rich maltiness persist, making for a satisfying and evolving finish.

This Springbank local barley 11 year old 2011 release is a fantastic example of the Local Barley series’s appeal, offering a unique and complex profile that sets it apart even within Springbank’s diverse range.