Appearance

Peering into the Glencairn the color of the Springbank 15 Year Old is in between a dark gold and light amber.

Aroma

The initial wave of flavors brings light, inviting smoke and medicinal notes. Beneath the smoke and medicinal characteristics, flavors of sherry, crisp green apple and dark, sweet fruits. I really dig the nose quite a bit.

Flavor

Sweet and spicy are the two primary words that come to mind. Past that, peat smoke, bitter oak, bread and a hint of chocolate.

Balance

For a younger 15 year expression, the balance is surprisingly good. The alcohol is un-noticeable and the profile is centered slightly towards the spice.

Finish

The finish is long and lingering but as I sip more and more, it is namely a bitter oak.

Overall

After years of enjoying Springbank in a good variety of the aged expressions (10, 15, 18, 21), the Springbank 15 Year Old continues to be the best valued. You can’t really beat the $100 price tag of the 15 year old. The 10 year for $55, although good, is a bit youthful. The 18 year for $190 is amazing (and my preferred dram), the 21 year for $400 is amazing but not $400 amazing. The only gripe I have about the 15 year is the lack of a complex finish. To get that depth of finish, you’ll have to shell out $90 more for the 18 year, which in my opinion is well worth it. With all that said, this is a no brainer of a pick up.

Jiunn Liu

SCORE

6.42

Cost/Point

$15.58

Scoring System

Personal Spirit Review: Springbank 15 Year Old