Springbank 13 Year Old 2003

There are times when I taste highly-rated whiskies and think... meh, too bitter, too something else... maybe it's me... maybe my palate isn't functioning correctly. Then there are days when my confidence is restored, and I realize my palate is perfectly fine, thank you very much. Today is one of those days. Three for three: Jose Familia, Tomatin 21, and now Springbank 2003 13. Wow, wow, wow... this is easily a 4.25, maybe 4.5. It could have scored higher, but the Tomatin 21 before it made such a strong impression that, sadly, it's just not quite at that level. Still, if I were Winnie the Pooh, I'd be a very happy bear. Abundant honey, vanilla, and more. A hint of bitterness, and I think I unfortunately diluted it too much. Still a great drink. I see it sold out months after release, with only 540 bottles produced, and already fetching double the price at auction.

Following that Beinn Dubh Speyside felt like a complete reversal. That Beinn Dubh was a peculiar find. This one is standard, perhaps even superior. It's akin to trading a quirky girlfriend known for her knife collection for a cheerleader. (A true story, though the knife collector offered far more wild amusement). A smoky, sweet, lingering finish of lemon custard. The sherry maturation is barely detectable; the wood is clearly secondary to the distillery's character. Another well-crafted Springbank.

Sherry walnut, toasty, musty, overripe apple, dried apricot. dry walnut, spicy palate, smoky and woody. Dark chocolate and brine. Had a burst of fruit roll up at one point!