While bottled in December 2024, this Local Barley was launched early 2025 so it’s known as the 2025 release. I’m always keen to try the annual Springbank Local Barley but finding a sample isn’t easy – perhaps even more difficult than finding a bottle. The last I tried was the Local Barley 2022 release if I’m not mistaken.
This year it is a slightly younger version with a very high yield. They used Bere barley (just like in 2017) from the High Ranachan farm close to Campbeltown. Maturation took place in 50% bourbon casks and 50% sherry.
Springbank ‘Local Barley’ 8 yo 2016 (58,1%, OB 2025, bourbon + sherry casks, 13.500 btl.)
Nose: maltier than expected, along with melons, hay and wet wool. The initial impression is one of mildness and roundness. Some tobacco leaves, as well as a matchstick note underneath. Nothing disturbing. Then also wet limestone and rags from a car workshop. Subtle vanilla in the background, as well as honey and some fragrant lemony notes, but also increasing herbal hints.
Mouth: more typically Springbank now, in my opinion. Really oily, with subtle antiseptics, silver polish and hints of soot. Then a firm peppery kick (adding a green character). Once this fades there are more greasy notes, brine, along with nutmeg and cumin. Darker towards the end, with some black tea and chocolate. Overall the sherry seems less prominent than the bourbon side.
Finish: quite long, robust and spicy, even slightly tannic, with an underlying smokiness, malt and gingery notes.
The alcohol kick and the light sulphury edge are ‘working points’ so to speak. For me this 8 Year Old ends up in the lower regions of the Local Barley ranking. The other Bere barley version wasn’t a favourite either, by the way. Sold out, I believe, and always irritating price differences.