Springbank 12 Years Old, Rum Cask

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 25 by Michael Jackson and Dave Broom.

Whisky Magazine is the perfect complement to the dram in your glass. Every issue brings you fascinating articles on the art, science and romance of the 'water of life', plus page after page of tasting notes.

• Issue 25 online • Buy issue 25 (£5.95)
• Subscribe to Whisky Magazine (from £28.38)
• Preview current issue (73) • Preview other issues online

Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Sweetish. Fragrant. Smoky, with fruit behind. Like an applewood grill. Hint of salty sea air. Palate Soft. Marshmallowy. Sweet red apples. Pears. Hedgerow fruits. Finish Small explosion of spiciness. Peppermint. Comment More rounded and elegant than the earlier, 10 Years Old rum cask. I enjoy the Springbank rum cask whiskies very much, though not at the expense of the more traditional expressions.

Dave Broom Nose All quite sweet and light with banana, café au lait, dried fig, but as it opens out comes some sooty/peaty notes. An intriguing mix. Palate A very solid start with toffee/caramelised fruit in the centre held in check by a slightly austere grip. Finish Smoky with raisin, baked banana, spice. Comment The sweetness of the rum is never allowed to dominate the Springbank character. Well integrated.