Cracked open a Springer 12yr Claret, recommended by my buddy Tim Davis. Great call too! My thoughts:
Springbank 12yr Claret 54.4%
Nose: Lovely ripe fruit jumps out of the glass. Orange peal and citrus notes. Soft smoke and a whiff of red wine. Interesting!
Taste: Rich, creamy entry that quickly gives way to a splash of smoke and salt. Red fruit including grapes combined with a mild pepperiness unfolds mid-palate. A bit salty on exit.
Finish: The layers are beginning to unfold. A mild sweetness lingers with this long, pleasant finish. An oaky nuttiness of salty cashews hangs around on the back of the palate.
Rating: This is a very respectable pour. Complex, well rounded, and full of layers. The smoke, fruit, and wine play well together and give this one a nice balance. I'm scoring it a 91.