Strathisla 51 Years Old 1965 Cask #3474 (G&M)

From Gordon & MacPhail comes this Strathisla, aged 51 year old from 1965, drawn from cask 3474 and bottled at 43%. The outturn was 418 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. 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. Ex-Sherry wood suited the full make, adding a dried fruit richness. Very old Strathisla turns profound, waxy and tropical yet still honeyed and fruity. Refill oak lets the fruity distillery character lead, honey over orchard fruit. Few distilleries can claim an unbroken run of distilling as long as Strathisla's. The Isla valley's soft water and old stills shape a honeyed, fruity spirit.

At 43% it is supple and honeyed. The Oloroso gives dried fruit and a warm nuttiness, 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. A long, honeyed finish carries an almond note. This is a fruity, full bodied Speysider from Keith.