Longrow 7Y RED

The world of whisky is filled with countless expressions, ranging from the most traditional styles to innovative approaches that push the boundaries of flavor. One of the most notable players in this dynamic landscape is the Longrow Red series, specifically the Longrow 7 Year Old Red. This unique Scottish whisky, produced by the Springbank Distillery in Campbeltown, is renowned for its distinct smokiness and the influence of wine casks, resulting in a rich and layered experience. In this blog, we will explore the history, production process, flavor profiles, and why this whisky is so highly regarded.

The History of Longrow

Longrow is one of three brands produced by the famous Springbank Distillery. Springbank, a family-owned business, has been active since 1828 in Campbeltown, one of the oldest whisky-producing regions in Scotland. The Longrow brand was first introduced in 1973 when Springbank decided to create a peated whisky in homage to the tradition of using peat that was once widespread in Campbeltown. Longrow whiskies are known for their pronounced smoky character and are double distilled, unlike the usual triple distillation for most Springbank whiskies.

What Makes Longrow 7 Red Special?

The Longrow Red series is a special annual release in which the whisky is aged in various types of wine casks, adding an extra dimension to the signature smokiness of Longrow. The Longrow 7 Year Old Red is one of the younger expressions in this series, but that doesn't diminish its complexity. For this specific release, the whisky is aged for five years in refill bourbon casks, followed by an additional two years in red wine casks. These wine casks, sourced from a variety of red wine styles, impart a deeper fruitiness and subtle tannins, elevating the whisky to a new level.

Production Process

The production process of Longrow 7 Red begins with the selection of high-quality barley. The barley is dried over a peat fire, laying the foundation for the distinctive smoky flavor that defines Longrow. The distillation is done twice, resulting in a robust and fuller spirit than some other Scottish whiskies.

However, what truly sets this whisky apart is the aging process. After an initial five-year maturation in bourbon casks, the whisky is transferred to red wine casks for an additional two years of aging. This secondary cask adds a unique dimension to the whisky, with rich fruit notes and subtle wine influences that complement the smoky base of Longrow.

Flavor Profile

When tasting the Longrow 7 Year Old Red, the senses are immediately stimulated by a complex array of aromas and flavors. Below is a detailed breakdown of the different aspects of its flavor profile.

• Nose: The nose offers an intriguing blend of peat smoke, red fruits, and spicy notes. You can detect subtle hints of raspberries, dark cherries, and a touch of vanilla, underpinned by a solid base of smokiness. The influence of the wine cask is evident without overpowering the balance.

• Palate: On the palate, the whisky truly shines. The peat smoke is intense but well-integrated with the sweeter notes from the wine casks. Red fruits such as cherries and plums combine beautifully with caramel and vanilla, creating a round and full flavor. The tannins from the wine casks provide a slight dryness to the whisky, offering a pleasant texture on the palate.

• Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering smokiness and a hint of spice. The fruity character lingers, along with a subtle note of oak, providing a well-rounded and satisfying conclusion.

Comparison with Other Longrow Expressions

The Longrow Red series offers an interesting variation on the more traditional Longrow expressions. While the standard Longrow is known for its pure smokiness, the Red series adds a new dimension through the use of wine casks. This makes the Longrow 7 Year Old Red an excellent choice for fans of both peated whiskies and those with a more pronounced fruity character. The balance between the smokiness and the fruity wine influences makes it a versatile whisky suitable for various occasions.

Compared to other Longrow whiskies, such as the Longrow 18 Year Old or the Longrow Peated, the 7 Year Old Red offers a more playful and vibrant experience. While older Longrow expressions are often characterized by deeper wood influences and a more subdued complexity, the 7 Year Old Red is fresh and dynamic, with a clear focus on the interplay between peat and fruit.

Why Choose Longrow 7 Red?

There are several reasons why the Longrow 7 Year Old Red is an excellent choice for whisky connoisseurs and collectors.

1. Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of peat and red wine casks creates a flavor profile that is hard to find in other whiskies. This unique mix of smokiness and fruitiness makes it an exciting choice for those looking for something beyond traditional whisky profiles.

2. Limited Availability: The Longrow Red series is released annually in limited quantities, meaning that each bottle carries a certain rarity. This makes it a coveted addition to any whisky collection.

3. Quality and Craftsmanship: Longrow and the Springbank Distillery are known for their artisanal approach to whisky production. Everything, from drying the barley with peat to carefully selecting the casks, is done by hand. This craftsmanship is evident in every sip of the whisky.

The Future of Longrow Red

With the annual releases of the Longrow Red series, Springbank continues to demonstrate innovation in the world of whisky. The combination of traditional production methods with the experimentation of different wine casks offers exciting possibilities for future expressions. It is clear that the popularity of the Longrow Red series continues to grow, and whisky enthusiasts around the world eagerly await each new release.

The use of red wine casks in Scottish whisky is a relatively modern trend, and Longrow has shown that it can be a lasting force. The ability to combine traditional smokiness with modern influences from wine casks has set a new standard for what is possible in the world of whisky.

Conclusion

The Longrow 7 Year Old Red is a fascinating whisky that explores the boundaries of flavor and aroma in a refreshing way. The interplay of peat smoke, red fruit, and subtle tannins makes it a unique experience for any whisky lover. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice whisky drinker, this expression offers something special that is worth discovering.

Due to its limited release, high quality, and unique flavor profile, the Longrow 7 Red remains a sought-after whisky among connoisseurs. If you have the opportunity to taste this expression, make sure to seize it. It’s a whisky you won’t soon forget and a beautiful addition to the Longrow family.