As the core expression and the "face" of the distillery, this 12-year-old performs exceptionally well. The spirit is gentle and nuanced, yet it manages to showcase a complex array of cask influences that harmonize without overstaying their welcome. It is delicate yet powerful—a perfect testament to Billy Walker’s ambitious vision for the brand. If you are looking for a reliable "Daily Dram," this is a top-tier contender.
Another Year, Another Journey to Campbeltown
As the year draws to a close, I find myself instinctively heading towards Springbank. It’s a ritual born out of a slight collector’s obsession - gathering the miniature bottles from the distillery tours over the years. Without them, the year would feel incomplete, leaving a small, lingering void in my collection.
Kicking Off the 2026
Three and a half hours later, I pulled up at the Highlander Inn in Craigellachie. The tasting was hosted by the Hong Kong-based independent bottler, Whisky Concerto. We went through six of their bottlings, and before I dive into the details, let me give you my "TL;DR" conclusion: delicious, playful, and crafted with a clear sense of conviction.