Springbank 27 Year Old 1996 Single Cask

Distilled in 1996, this Springbank spent more than 27 years maturing in a refill sherry hogshead before being selected for bottling. The use of refill sherry wood is significant, allowing extended ageing without overwhelming the spirit, and making it particularly well suited to long maturation.

Refill sherry casks contribute structure and gradual oxidative development rather than dominant sweetness. Over decades, this type of cask allows Springbank’s core character to remain intact while slowly developing depth through polished oak, dried fruit and subtle nutty tones. The long interaction between spirit and wood results in integration rather than intensity, with tannins softened and flavours layered gradually over time.

Springbank’s distillate provides a strong foundation for this style of ageing. Floor malted barley, partial peat influence and the distillery’s distinctive 2.5 times distillation produce an oily, weighty spirit with natural complexity. In long aged refill wood, those qualities evolve into composed fruit notes, restrained spice, maritime salinity and a calm, mature oak presence.

As a single cask bottling, this release reflects the character of one specific hogshead rather than a balanced vatting. There is no attempt to adjust or replicate a profile. What is in the bottle is the direct outcome of that cask’s journey from 1996 to bottling.