Strathisla 10 Years Old 2007 Cask #800026 (van Wees)

van Wees bottled this Strathisla single malt, a 10 year old release from 2007, drawn from cask 800026 and bottled at 46%. A release of 294 bottles. Strathisla was established in 1786 as the Milltown distillery in the Speyside town of Keith; it is the home of Chivas Regal. The single malt is prized for its honeyed, fruity Speyside character.

Distilled in short copper pot stills on Broomhill Spring water, giving the honeyed, full bodied spirit at its heart. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the fruit lead. Still young, the malt is honeyed and fruity with a creamy lift. A patient maturation suits the rich, fruity Strathisla character. Scarce as an official bottling, Strathisla was long bottled mainly by Gordon and MacPhail. The distillery has stood by the Isla since the reign of George III. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for.

At an approachable 46% it is rich and balanced. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under honey, apple and a soft spice. It is rich and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. Dried fruit and honey see out a long finish. This is an honeyed, fruity Speyside single malt.