SRV5 8 Years Batch 005 (Thompson Bros)

SRV5 8 Years Batch 005 (Thompson Bros)

SRV5 (which stands for Station Road Vat #5) is an 8 year old blended malt created by the Thompson Bros. They quickly explain the concept in this video.

The blend contains some carefully selected North Highland, Islay and Speyside single malts, which come together in a 1200-litre European oak vessel. This “solera” vat is never fully emptied, so each batch includes some of the whisky from the previous release. The aim is to deliver a versatile daily dram, easily mixed or enjoyed on its own.

The batch number could be a little more prominent in my opinion, just so you know what you’re buying. It’s in a tiny font on the back label and shops don’t bother mentioning it.

 

SRV5 8 yo (48,5%, Thompson Bros 2022, Batch #005, blended malt)

Nose: a fruity core, showing some pears and melons before moving to bright grapefruits and lemon peels. There’s a certain mineral side to it, as well as a hint of coastal peat smoke. Later green peppercorns appear with a grassy note.

Mouth: still a grown-up Highlands profile at its base, with a healty strength. Some easy lemons, apples and shortbread on the one hand, but also a sharper mineral side. Grapefruit peels, hints of briney smoke and mineral oils. Peppermint and a faint hint of bitter tonic.

Finish: medium length, becoming zesty and citrusy, with a grassy touch and gentle smoky notes.

SRV5 is a really characterful whisky that manages to captivate the more discerning whisky lover as well. There’s a nice sharp edge that reminds us of malts from Clynelish or Springbank at times. A clever composition that works well on its own but definitely makes a nice highball as well. And it’s really affordable too. Now available from Thompson Bros and a series of retailers like The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt.

  
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