Home Tasting: Springbank 1999-2016 16yo Official 'Local Barley'

A wonderful new release that truly feels like the future. Springbank SPRINGBANK 1999-2016 16yo OB 'Local Barley' 54.3% One of 9000 bottles ・Aroma: Elegant and vibrant, with fresh orange and grapefruit, slightly bruised green strawberries, white flowers, a strong malty character with youthful vigor, Gorgonzola cheese, a powdery concentration, minerals, a touch of brininess, and a pronounced peat. ・Flavor: Spicy and expansive on the palate, with fresh orange, a powdery concentration that lingers on the tongue, rich and intense malty umami with a satisfying chewiness, subtle honeyed sweetness, citrus acidity, strong saltiness, moderate oak, and a robust peat with notes of smoke and tar. ・Aftertaste: A rich umami presence with saltiness. A clean finish characteristic of Springbank. ・Dilution: Smooth as is, with the unique texture remaining intact. ・Overall Impression: A truly remarkable Springbank as a new release. While the base is malty umami, it's enriched with diverse and vibrant elements. The pronounced saltiness gives it a distinctive character, yet the overall finish is impressively clean and refined for Springbank. Over time since opening, the Gorgonzola-like notes and peat have become more pronounced. 【Very Good】 This is a new release of Springbank 1999, 16yo 'Local Barley' with a reissued label. Bottled in limited quantities of 9000, it's arriving in Japan this month. I had written about its overseas release previously but finally opened and thoroughly enjoyed it at home. Though I've been savoring it carefully, it's nearly gone. The aroma remained largely consistent with my previous BAR drinking experience, and while I've already discussed the emotional impact at length, I'll refrain from elaborating further. However, over time since opening, the Gorgonzola and peat notes have become more pronounced. As a recent malt and as Springbank, it's an exceptional product that truly feels like the future.