Strathisla 11 Years Old

This Strathisla, an official release, an 11 year old Speyside malt and bottled at 48%. Strathisla, opened in 1786 by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire, is the home of Chivas Regal. 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. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. At a youthful age the fruit is lively and the malt rich. Sherry wood suits the rich make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. The distillery is a centrepiece of the Malt Whisky Trail and the home of Chivas. 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 a natural 48% it is full and rich. Ripe orchard fruit and a gentle ginger sit alongside honeyed oak sweetness underneath. It is rounded and full, the fruity spirit shining through. A fruity, gently spiced finish lingers long. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.