The Springbank Local Barley is an annual release made from barley grown in or around Campbeltown. Each year a local farmer is commissioned to grow barley on our behalf to continue producing this ‘grain to glass’ limited edition.
Different farms, barley varieties, cask maturations and length of time the whisky spends in the casks from one batch to the next allow our customers a unique tasting experience every time.
Springbank Local Barley 8yo 58.1%
50% Bourbon, 50.0% Sherry
Farm: High Ranachan 
Barley Variety: Bere 
 
Nose: Rich maltiness, but also an interesting, almost meaty element here. Attractively sulphury, in a way I’ve only rarely experienced in early 1990s ex-bourbon Mortlach. There’s a farmy quality, highlighted by silage and pot ale, but then finally fruitier notes as well. Stewed apples mainly, maybe even a hint of mango. Now also ozone and wet pebbles.
Taste: Mouthfeel on point. Thick and oily. Mouthcoating. Slivers of soot, smoked barley husks and a fun medicinal side. Not sure of course, but the latter could be attributed to the Bere, as it is something I’ve noticed in the Bruichladdich Bere Barley releases as well. There’s a pinch of pepper, followed by quinces, brine and a slowly building smokiness.
Finish: Long. A sliver of chocolate, big malty notes and earthy peat, as well slightly lemony and just a touch of sulphur, as well as sugary barley water.