Springbank has become so popular, hyped even, that people are now even chasing after the distillery’s most budget (and I use that term with the utmost respect) expression. Campbeltown Loch Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is, of course, not a pure Springbank release. But it’s a product from the distillery’s owners, J&A Mitchell, and includes a good chunk of Springbank distillate.
All five malts from Campbeltown, Scotland’s smallest whisky region, have been used to produce Campbeltown Loch Blended Malt Scotch Whisky. There are only three distilleries – Glen Scotia, Glengyle, and Springbank. The latter produces three different styles: unpeated (Hazelburn), medium peated (Springbank) and heavily peated (Longrow). This blended malt matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, but from the looks of it, the ex-sherry casks have had the upper hand.
Campbeltown Loch Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46%, OB, Batch 22/231)
Nose: A touch of rubber-y, dirty sherry, but nothing to worry about. It goes well with the barbecue smoke, paprika powder, raisins and a whiff of orange zest. Also some crushed mint.
Taste: Nice and oily mouthfeel. Just deliciously soft, earthy smoke with a touch of damp oak, cured meats and tobacco. Then a whisper of eucalyptus, juicy red fruits and a decent salinity too. Finally just a pinch of black pepper.
Finish: Medium to long. Slightly dry. Lingering touches of oranges, barbecued smoke, and mineral notes.
Photo: Whiskybase
