Strathisla 16 Years Old 1970 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

This is a Strathisla single malt, chosen and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, a 16 year old release from 1970 and bottled at 61.3%. Strathisla was built in 1786 on the River Isla in Keith, on the River Isla in Speyside; it is the oldest continuously working distillery in the Highlands. It is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands.

It was worked through short pot stills for a rich, fruity make, for the rich, fruity Speyside make Strathisla is known for. A sherry butt held it, the wood lending raisin and walnut. Around two decades the malt gains a fuller honey and a dried fruit weight. Years in oak round the spirit, the honey and dried fruit deepening with age. 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 cask strength 61.3% it is full bodied. The Oloroso brings dried fruit, fig and a nutty depth, and a rich, fruity sweetness meet a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. Beneath it run honey, pear and a soft spice. Ripe pear and honey draw out the close. This is the fruity Speyside heart of Chivas Regal.