The history of Springbank Distillery traces back to the Mitchell family's involvement in Campbeltown's whisky trade. In the 1660s, the Mitchell family, settlers from the Lowlands and some maltsters, arrived in Campbeltown. Archibald Mitchell became a partner at Rieclachan Distillery in 1825, joined by his brother Hugh. In 1828, Springbank was built on the site of Archibald's previous illicit still, officially founding the distillery as Campbeltown's 14th licensed one. Demand grew, leading Archibald's sister Mary to build Drumore Distillery in 1834. In 1837, Archibald's sons John and William took ownership of Springbank; John later included his son, forming J&A Mitchell. Early recognition came when John Walker purchased 118 gallons of Springbank whisky in 1838.
By 1872, William founded Glengyle Distillery amid rising demand for Campbeltown malts. Campbeltown peaked in prosperity by 1891, with a population of 1,969 reputed as Britain's richest per capita. In the 1900s, Springbank adapted to lighter whisky preferences, reducing peat and using coal for malting. The 1920s saw Campbeltown distilleries cut corners, leading to closures as blenders sought better sources; Glengyle ceased in 1925 after sale, and Rieclachan closed in 1934, leaving Springbank and Glen Scotia.
Springbank persisted through downturns. In 1970, it bottled a 50-year-old 1919 whisky; in 1973, it distilled Longrow, proving mainland Islay-style single malt production. Production was sporadic in the 1980s but resumed regularly in 1989 as demand grew. The 1990s boosted its reputation with top-quality bottlings. Hazelburn was first distilled in 1997. In 2000, Chairman Hedley G. Wright, great-great-grandson of Archibald, repurchased Glengyle buildings. Rebuilt Glengyle opened in 2004 as Campbeltown's first new distillery in over 100 years and Scotland's first in the 21st century. A 2008-2009 production break allowed new warehousing. In 2013, a 1919 bottle sold for £50,000 to a Chinese collector. In 2023, Chairman Mr. HG Wright passed away, with ownership in trusts and a family member on the board.
Today, Springbank operates as one of Campbeltown's three distilleries, with expansion plans by J&A Mitchell.
Springbank 5 Year Old 100 Proof 2025 is a bold and youthful Campbeltown single malt, bottled at 57.1% ABV after full maturation in bourbon casks. This limited release embodies the distillery's signature 2.5 times distillation process and light peating, delivering remarkable depth for its age. It captures the essence of Springbank's traditional craftsmanship, balancing raw intensity with approachable complexity, making it a standout for enthusiasts who appreciate high-proof expressions without extended aging. The whisky's profile highlights coastal influences, subtle smoke, and vibrant fruit notes, reflecting Campbeltown's maritime heritage.
Nosing: The aroma is immediately bright and vibrant, bursting with fresh lemon zest, green apples, and a refreshing sea spray that evokes the Campbeltown coastline. Subtle vanilla custard and malt sweetness emerge, intertwined with gentle peat smoke reminiscent of distant bonfires. Touches of grilled pineapple, hay, and soft ashes add an earthy layer, while a faint citrus note and floral hints of gorse bush provide lift and playfulness, akin to fruity wine gums.
Palate: On the palate, it's well-balanced and robust, with a touch of peat smoke weaving through sweet notes of icing sugar, white chocolate, and caramel. Herbal elements like tomato plant, sunflower seeds, and linseed oil add intrigue, complemented by dried fruits such as apricots and raisins, sea salt, and a soft oily texture. The bourbon influence shines with vanilla and oak spice. Adding water softens the intensity, revealing sweeter candy-like wine gums and jelly beans, followed by pickled ginger and a mild chilli pepper kick for added warmth and complexity.
Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering gentle smoke, briny salt, and a fading fruitiness that echoes the nose's citrus and apple notes. Subtle oak tannins and a hint of ash provide dryness, leaving a clean, maritime freshness that invites another sip. Overall, this expression punches above its age, offering a dynamic interplay of flavors ideal for sipping neat or with a drop of water.