Longrow
- FOR DISTILLERY INFORMATION SEE SPRINGBANK ON PAGE 261.
Longrow
Peated
Previously known as Longrow C.V., it’s a non-age-statement expression aged in ex-bourbon casks. All Springbank whiskies (except for Hazelburn) are a bit peaty, but this is significantly more peated than the rest.
- PRICE $$ · RATING
- AGE No age statement
- ALC/VOL 46%
- NOSE Creamy, waxy whiffs of saltwater taffy, sweet smoke, leather, marzipan, and vanilla; water makes it slightly sweeter.
- PALATE A medium mouthfeel with a palate that opens sweetly, then moves through savory to smoky; water enhances but doesn’t fundamentally alter the palate. The long finish shows smoke, seaweed, and spicy pepper.
- GENERAL Islay fans looking to branch out should give this one a shot—it’s solid on the peat, but different: more smoky than phenolic, sweeter and less heavy on the iodine. Peat-curious folks should also give it a try before stepping up to an Ardbeg.
Aged 18 Years
The oldest and most refined of the Longrow line.
- PRICE $$$ · RATING
- AGE 18 years old
- ALC/VOL 46%
- NOSE Grilled lemon, charcoal, creosote, honey, strawberry, cigarettes; water brings out berry juice, barbecue sauce, and grilled pork.
- PALATE Chewy, with blackberries, sweet barbecue sauce, charcoal, burnt caramel, cigarette tobacco, and a bubbling spice at the middle; adding water brings out buttered toast and tropical fruit. The lengthy finish is all about chocolate, citrus oil, and raspberry jam.
- GENERAL Searing spice and peat, but with enough juicy sweetness to balance it. Combined, it’s a remarkable, bold whisky.