Strathisla 12 Years Old 2005 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, this Strathisla matured to 12 year old from 2005 and bottled at 43%. Strathisla, founded in 1786 on the banks of the Isla at Keith, is the home of Chivas Regal. Founded as the Milltown distillery, it took the Strathisla name in the 19th century.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. A sherry butt held it, the wood lending raisin and walnut. At a youthful age the fruit is lively and the malt rich. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for. Keith is one of Speyside's old whisky towns, north of the Cairngorms. 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.

At 43% it is supple and honeyed. Raisin, date and a nutty sherry depth build, and orchard fruit and a creamy honey sit alongside soft vanilla and honey from the cask. A baked apple and a warm ginger lift it. A fruity, gently spiced finish lingers long. This is a rich Speyside malt from the home of Chivas.