Strathisla The Distillery Reserve Collection 17 Years Old 1998

An official Strathisla single malt, a 17 year old from 1998, drawn from cask 4330-31, 4336-37 and bottled at 57.9%. A release of 1632 bottles. Strathisla was founded in 1786 by Taylor and Milne in the old town of Keith on Speyside, and it is the fruity heart of the Chivas Regal blend. The single malt is prized for its honeyed, fruity Speyside character.

The spirit was made in small copper onion stills for a full bodied spirit, for a rich, fruity make of real depth. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. By this age the rich spirit rounds into honey, ripe pear and a nutty depth. Refill oak lets the fruity distillery character lead, honey over orchard fruit. Dunnage warehouses on site give a slow, humid maturation by the river. The make leans rich and fruity, fuller than the lighter Speyside style. Few distilleries can claim an unbroken run of distilling as long as Strathisla's.

At a natural 57.9% it is full and rich. Vanilla and a creamy note from the barrel runs under honey, apple and a soft spice. It is rich and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. A long, honeyed finish carries an almond note. This is an honeyed, fruity Speyside single malt.