Strathisla 15 Years Old 2002 Cask #ST218 (Hidden Spirits)

This is a Strathisla single malt, chosen and bottled by Hidden Spirits, aged 15 year old from 2002, drawn from cask ST218 and bottled at 51.2%. Strathisla was founded in 1786 by Taylor and Milne on the banks of the Isla at Keith, and it is the fruity heart of the Chivas Regal blend. It is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. By this age the rich spirit rounds into honey, ripe pear and a nutty depth. The cool Speyside climate gives a slow, even maturation over many years. Dunnage warehouses on site give a slow, humid maturation by the river. The make leans rich and fruity, fuller than the lighter Speyside style. Few distilleries can claim an unbroken run of distilling as long as Strathisla's.

At its natural 51.2% it is rich and fruity. A rich, fruity sweetness meet soft vanilla and honey from the cask. Beneath it run honey, pear and a soft spice. It closes long, honeyed and fruity. This is the fruity Speyside heart of Chivas Regal.