Springbank Archives - More Drams, Less Drama

Hazelburn 2007 and Springbank 2003 Society Exclusives

21st April 202520th April 2025Coldorak

Springbank Distillery typically holds a special place in the heart of whisky enthusiasts. The quality of their distillates, the differences between Hazelburn, Longrow, and, of course, Springbank, and the fact that they still make it as they did decades ago, with floor maltings, old-style equipment, and a rejection of unnecessary modernisation, all contribute to its appeal. Dozens of people work at the distillery, not just three people and a computer. The Springbank funk and the consistency of the Springbank 10-year-old, which has remained a fantastic whisky for years without failing or cutting corners, and still at an accessible price, are reasons why whisky enthusiasts love Springbank. Count me among them. For long-time fans, there’s the Springbank Society, which offers access (via ballot) to special and exclusive releases that remain reasonably priced. Unfortunately, I discovered the Springbank Society too late; due to its success, they have closed new applications for several years. However, thanks to a good friend, I managed to get samples of two recent society releases: the Hazelburn 2007 and Springbank 2003 Society exclusives, aged 16 and 20 years, respectively.

Springbank 10-year-old Palo Cortado

26th January 202427th January 2024Coldorak

As January 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the passing weeks, realising it’s been a while since my last post. The onset of winter proved challenging, as a persistent illness lingered, not severe but enough to dampen my spirits and impede the joy of savouring and reviewing whiskies. Nevertheless, this unexpected hiatus provided an opportunity to thin out my whisky collection, creating some much-needed space on my shelves.

Towards the end of the previous year, a stroke of fortune came my way when a friend, employed at a local off-licence, secured for me a bottle of the elusive Springbank 10-year-old Palo Cortado at its recommended retail price. The only stipulation was a choice between unsealing the bottle or having my name adorn the label, a precaution to discourage resale. Opting for the latter, indifferent to the inclusion of my name or nickname, seemed a small price to pay for this coveted bottle, especially considering it needed to be shipped to me, so a perfect seal was mandatory. Interestingly, this decision has now become a recurring theme, with my name gracing labels of other Springbank bottles, ones I acquired during a visit to the distillery – ranging from handfills to a distinctive cage bottle, and even my personally crafted Springbank composition.

Having now recovered from my ailment, I’ve finally had the pleasure of sampling a few drams from the Springbank 10-year-old Palo Cortado. So, without further ado, let’s delve into a detailed review. But before we embark on this tasting journey, anticipate some changes on these pages.

Springbank Eat, Sleep, Dram, Repeat

4th August 202313th October 2023Coldorak

Earlier in July, I ‘attended’ with a group of friends the ‘Eat, Sleep, Dram, Repeat’ tour introduced end of last year at Springbank distillery. For almost three days and three nights, you’re well taken care of by the Springbank staff, for visits, tastings, meals and accommodation. And boy, the name of the tour is right. Especially on the dram and repeat parts!

Springbank 1969 Signatory Vintage Rare Reserve

Springbank 30yo & 1969 Signatory

20th February 202320th February 2023Coldorak

Recently, I celebrated my birthday and decided to indulge in some excellent whisky. To start my evening, I savoured my cherished Balblair 1979 OB before moving on to Springbank. Since I plan to visit Springbank for a few days in July, I want to be adequately prepared. Surprisingly, I haven’t yet reviewed any Springbank whisky on More Drams. Therefore, let’s begin with a bang: the 2022 release of the yearly Springbank 30-year-old. I will also compare it to a Springbank 1969 bottled by Signatory Vintage, which I could taste last year and fill a sample.