Springbank and Longrow are two distinct whiskies produced by the Springbank distillery in Campbeltown, Scotland. While they are both peated malts, there are some key differences in their production and flavor profiles.
1. Peat Levels:
– Springbank: Springbank is a lightly peated malt whisky, with a peat level of around 10-15 parts per million (ppm). This results in a subtle smokiness and a more balanced flavor profile.
– Longrow: On the other hand, Longrow is heavily peated, with a peat level of around 50-55 ppm. This makes it comparable to the smoky whiskies produced on the island of Islay, known for their robust and powerful peat smoke flavors.
2. Production Process:
– Springbank: Springbank is produced using a unique traditional production process. It is one of the few distilleries in Scotland that carries out every step of the whisky-making process on-site, from malting their own barley to bottling the final product. This hands-on approach gives Springbank whiskies a distinct character and a sense of craftmanship.
– Longrow: Longrow is a brand within the Springbank distillery that focuses solely on heavily peated whiskies. The production process for Longrow is similar to that of Springbank, but with higher levels of peat, resulting in a more pronounced smoky flavor.
3. Flavor Profiles:
– Springbank: Springbank whiskies are known for their complexity and balance. The peat smoke in Springbank is more subtle, allowing other flavors to shine through. It has an oily texture with hints of saltiness and a touch of sweetness. The combination of peat, fruit, and malt makes for a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.
– Longrow: Longrow whiskies are all about the peat smoke. They have a robust and powerful smoky flavor, reminiscent of the whiskies produced on the island of Islay. Alongside the smoke, Longrow often exhibits notes of earthiness, citrus, and spice. It is a bold and intense whisky that appeals to fans of heavily peated malts.
In addition to Springbank and Longrow, the Springbank distillery also produces Hazelburn, a triple distilled and unpeated malt whisky. Hazelburn is known for its sweet and malty character, offering a contrast to the peated expressions.
The difference between Springbank and Longrow lies in the peat levels, production process, and flavor profiles. Springbank offers a balanced and complex whisky with a subtle smokiness, while Longrow is heavily peated and delivers a robust smoky flavor similar to Islay whiskies.