Strathisla 1937 Crystal Decanter (G&M)

This Strathisla was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail from 1937 and bottled at 70%. Strathisla, founded in 1786 on the banks of the Isla at Keith, is the home of Chivas Regal. Its twin pagodas and water wheel make it one of the prettiest distilleries in Scotland.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the fruity character to the fore. With no age statement, it shows a rich, honeyed body and ripe orchard fruit. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. Strathisla is the oldest continuously working distillery in the Scottish Highlands, founded in 1786. The distillery stands among gardens by the rushing River Isla. The malt is the fruity heart of the Chivas Regal blend, owned by Chivas Brothers since 1950.

At cask strength 70% it is full bodied. Ripe orchard fruit and a gentle ginger sit alongside soft vanilla and honey from the cask. It is rounded and full, the fruity spirit shining through. A fruity, gently spiced finish lingers long. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.