Strathisla 49 Years Old 1965 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

This Strathisla was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, a 49 year old from 1965 and bottled at 43%. Set by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire, Strathisla has distilled since 1786. Its twin pagodas and water wheel make it one of the prettiest distilleries in Scotland.

Distilled on soft Isla valley water in traditional pot stills, building the classic Strathisla style. A sherry butt held it, the wood lending raisin and walnut. Decades leave it deep and oxidative, candied fruit and beeswax with great age. Sherry wood suits the rich make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. Gordon and MacPhail have released Strathisla vintages reaching back to the 1930s and 1950s. Dunnage warehouses on site give a slow, humid maturation by the river. The make leans rich and fruity, fuller than the lighter Speyside style.

At 43% it is clean and fruity. Raisin, date and a nutty sherry depth build, and ripe orchard fruit and a gentle ginger sit alongside honeyed oak sweetness underneath. It is rounded and full, the fruity spirit shining through. The close is warm, fruit over soft oak. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.