Strathisla 12 Years Old 2008 Xaver Bar Choice No. 3 (Sansibar)

Bottled by Sansibar, this Strathisla, a 12 year old from 2008 and bottled at 53.7%. 255 bottles in all. Set by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire, Strathisla has distilled since 1786. Founded as the Milltown distillery, it took the Strathisla name in the 19th century.

Distilled on soft Isla valley water in traditional pot stills, building the classic Strathisla style. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. At this age the spirit is fresh and fruity, the pear and honey bright. Sherry wood suits the rich make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. 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.

Undiluted at 53.7%, it is layered. Orchard fruit and a creamy honey sit alongside honeyed oak sweetness underneath. A baked apple and a warm ginger lift it. The close is warm, fruit over soft oak. This is a rich Speyside malt from the home of Chivas.