Strathisla 57 Years Old 1949 Cask #384 (G&M)

This is a Strathisla single malt, chosen and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, aged 57 year old from 1949, drawn from cask 384 and bottled at 40%. Strathisla was first licensed in 1786 on the banks of the Isla at Keith; it is among the prettiest distilleries in Scotland. It is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. A sherry butt held it, the wood lending raisin and walnut. At forty years and more it is rich and waxy, tropical fruit, honey and old oak in a profound old malt. The cool Speyside climate gives a slow, even maturation over many years. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for. Keith is one of Speyside's old whisky towns, north of the Cairngorms.

At 40% it is supple and honeyed. The Oloroso brings dried fruit, fig and a nutty depth, and a rich, fruity sweetness meet soft vanilla and honey from the cask. Beneath it run honey, pear and a soft spice. Ripe pear and honey draw out the close. This is the fruity Speyside heart of Chivas Regal.