Strathisla 65 Years Old 1953 Cask #1613 (Private Collection)

From Gordon & MacPhail comes this Strathisla, a 65 year old release from 1953, drawn from cask 1613 and bottled at 43.5%. Only 143 bottles were released. Built in 1786 on the River Isla in the old town of Keith on Speyside, Strathisla is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. Water comes from the Broomhill Spring, the distillery set on the River Isla at Keith.

The spirit was made in small copper onion stills for a full bodied spirit, for a rich, fruity make of real depth. An Oloroso sherry cask wrapped the rich spirit in dried fruit and a nutty depth. At this great age the malt is full and mellow, the fruit deep and the oak polished. Refill oak lets the fruity distillery character lead, honey over orchard fruit. Strathisla is the oldest continuously working distillery in the Scottish Highlands, founded in 1786.

At an approachable 43.5% it is rich and balanced. Sherried dried fruit and a walnut richness come through, and vanilla and a creamy note from the barrel runs under a honeyed, creamy fruitiness. A dried fruit and a gentle oak spice give it depth. The finish runs rich, nutty and warm. This is a fruity, full bodied Speysider from Keith.