New Release: Springbank 21 Year Old Official for Japan 49.5%

A stable finish with a nuance similar to the UK version. Springbank SPRINGBANK 21yo OB for JAPAN 49.5% Oloroso Sherry Butt The aroma has a gentle sherry character, berry-infused tea, plum, orange marmalade, faint caramel and milk chocolate, a seaweed-like mineral sensation, with some peat and herbs. The mouthfeel is smooth, expanding into a rich, full-bodied texture with berries, faint dried fruits, nuts, and a sweet, velvety finish. The latter half reveals stronger seaweed minerals, saltiness, and a smoky, rich aftertaste. [Good/Very Good] This is the long-awaited Japanese edition of Springbank 21 Year Old, which has been released as a single cask for multiple markets since this year. It shares the same sherry butt specifications as the UK and Italian versions previously introduced. Notably, the Belgian and German editions used sherry hogsheads instead. While the outturn number isn't specified, it's likely around 700 bottles, similar to the UK version. The gentle sherry aroma is well-balanced throughout, with a diverse fruitiness that includes nuances of caramel and milk chocolate. The mineral notes and peat are subtly present, creating a rich, full-bodied Springbank with depth and complexity. Initially, I didn't have a strong impression when tasting it at an event, wondering if Japan was overlooked. However, upon re-tasting it at a bar, I found it to be quite similar to the UK version and left with a positive impression.