Springbank

Springbank Whisky

Springbank is one of the most respected and iconic distilleries in Scotland, located in the picturesque region of Campbeltown. Founded in 1828 and still family-owned, this legendary distillery stands out in an industry largely dominated by multinational corporations. Springbank is renowned worldwide for its traditional, artisanal approach to whisky production, where craftsmanship and quality take center stage. More than just a distillery, Springbank is a living monument to the rich history and heritage of Scotch whisky.

The Core of Springbank

What makes Springbank truly special is that it is one of the few distilleries that manages the entire production process in-house. From malting the barley to distillation, maturation, and even bottling—all takes place on-site. This practice, known as "grain-to-glass," is incredibly rare in today’s whisky industry. While most distilleries rely on external malting houses and bottling facilities, Springbank has chosen to retain full control over each stage of production. This level of oversight ensures an unparalleled consistency in quality and a distinct character in their whiskies.

One of the key elements that sets Springbank apart is its use of traditional floor malting, where the barley is manually turned by hand. This labor-intensive method is almost extinct, with only a handful of Scottish distilleries still employing it. Springbank’s dedication to this old-school technique results in whiskies with a unique depth of flavor and aromatic complexity.

The Unique Production Process

Springbank’s production methods also stand out due to the different distillation techniques they employ for their various whisky labels. The core Springbank whisky is distilled two and a half times—a rare method that creates a complex profile, balancing the rich, robust qualities of double distillation with the smoother characteristics of triple distillation.

Longrow, another iconic expression from the distillery, is a heavily peated whisky that is distilled twice. In contrast, Hazelburn is triple distilled and completely unpeated, making it soft and light. This variety of distillation techniques allows Springbank to produce a wide range of flavor profiles that cater to the preferences of whisky enthusiasts.

In addition to distillation, Springbank excels in using different types of casks for maturation. The distillery commonly employs both bourbon and sherry casks, and for special releases, they experiment with rum, Madeira, and port casks, among others. This variety of cask influences creates a rich and complex array of flavors, from fruit and spice to wood and smoke. One of their most beloved releases, the Springbank 12-Year-Old Cask Strength, is celebrated for its bold intensity, where these barrel influences shine through, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.

The Variety of Springbank Whiskies

Springbank’s portfolio offers more than just the eponymous whisky, with other labels like Longrow, Hazelburn, and Kilkerran, each offering its own unique identity.

1. Springbank: This is the heart of the distillery’s range, and their flagship whisky. Known for its versatility, Springbank whiskies present a perfect balance between fruity sweetness and earthy, smoky undertones. The standard expressions, such as the 10- and 15-year-old, are highly regarded, but it’s the Cask Strength series that truly excites collectors and whisky lovers. These whiskies, bottled straight from the barrel without dilution, offer an intense and authentic taste experience.

2. Longrow: This heavily peated whisky is Springbank’s tribute to Campbeltown’s tradition of smoky whiskies. Aged primarily in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, Longrow delivers bold peat smoke balanced with rich notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spices. It’s a robust, full-bodied whisky that appeals to fans of heavily peated Scotch.

3. Hazelburn: On the opposite end of the spectrum from Longrow, Hazelburn is a light, delicate whisky, triple distilled and entirely unpeated. This method, more commonly associated with Irish whiskey, results in a smooth, refined spirit. Hazelburn is typically aged in bourbon casks, giving it fresh, fruity notes with hints of vanilla and cream. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate elegance and subtlety in their whisky.

4. Kilkerran: Produced at the nearby Glengyle Distillery, which is owned by Springbank, Kilkerran is a relatively new addition but has quickly earned a reputation for its accessible yet complex character. Aged in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks, Kilkerran features layers of citrus, vanilla, light peat, and a hint of maritime salinity—typical of Campbeltown whiskies.

Limited Editions and Collectibles

In addition to their core range, Springbank is renowned for its limited-edition releases, which are highly coveted by collectors. Every year, the distillery releases special bottlings, including whiskies matured in rare casks such as rum, port, and Madeira. These limited runs are often released in small quantities, making them highly sought after by whisky enthusiasts. One of the most prestigious and collectible bottlings is the Springbank 21-Year-Old, a whisky that has won numerous awards for its depth, complexity, and balance.

The Springbank 12-Year-Old Cask Strength, one of the distillery’s most popular releases, comes out in different batches each year. Each batch offers slight variations in flavor and character depending on the casks used, making every release a new and exciting discovery for fans of cask-strength whisky.

Visiting Springbank

A visit to the Springbank distillery is an unforgettable experience for whisky lovers. The distillery is like a time capsule; much of the equipment is still operated manually, and the production process has changed little since its inception. Guided tours provide a deep insight into the traditional whisky-making methods that have been passed down through generations. The hands-on approach is evident in every step of the process, from the turning of barley on the malting floor to the filling of barrels for maturation.

Springbank remains loyal to its heritage and plays a vital role in preserving Campbeltown’s legacy as a renowned whisky region. Once home to over 30 distilleries, the town now boasts only three, with Springbank standing as its crown jewel.

Conclusion

Springbank is not just a distillery that has endured the test of time; it has helped define the standards for top-quality Scotch whisky. Their dedication to traditional production methods, combined with the diversity and depth of their whisky offerings, makes them a favorite among both connoisseurs and collectors. From the robust and smoky Longrow to the refined Hazelburn and the complex Springbank, there’s a whisky for every palate. Springbank’s heritage is not only rooted in its past but is kept alive in every bottle they produce. For any whisky lover, owning a bottle of Springbank is an absolute essential.

Read more about Glendronach here.