Springbank 28 Years Old 1974 Cask #1780 (Ian Macleod)

This Springbank was from the independent bottler Ian Macleod, aged 28 year old from 1974, drawn from cask 1780 and bottled at 56.3%. Only 204 bottles were released. Springbank, distilling since 1828 in Campbeltown, is a cult Campbeltown distillery with a devoted following. Concerto barley is malted on the floors and kilned in the distillery's own kiln.

This was floor malted, lightly peated and distilled two and a half times, then cooled slowly in worm tubs. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. At this age it is rich and complex, the fruit folded into a waxy, briny body. Sea air works into the warehouses, lending a saline thread as the whisky breathes. Kintyre's damp, mild climate suits a long and gentle maturation. The old town of Campbeltown once rivalled Speyside as Scotland's whisky heart. Quality and tradition, not volume, have always been the watchwords here.

Undiluted at 56.3%, it is intense. Oily orchard fruit, salt and a wisp of peat ride on vanilla, honey and coconut. It is deep and complex, the maritime spirit shining through. It closes long, oily and salty. This is the cult Campbeltown malt from J and A Mitchell.