Strathisla 12 Years Old 1997 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

From Gordon & MacPhail comes this Strathisla, a 12 year old from 1997 and bottled at 43%. Set in the old town of Keith on Speyside, Strathisla has distilled since 1786. 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 age the spirit is fresh and fruity, the pear and honey bright. 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. Strathisla is the oldest continuously working distillery in the Scottish Highlands, founded in 1786.

At an easy 43% it is gentle. 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. A warming, fruity finish lingers. This is a fruity, full bodied Speysider from Keith.