Strathisla 20 Years Old 2002 Cask #27057 (LMDW)

This is a Strathisla single malt, chosen and bottled by La Maison du Whisky, a 20 year old release from 2002, drawn from cask 27057 and bottled at 55.4%. A release of 192 bottles. Strathisla was established in 1786 as the Milltown distillery by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire; it is the home of Chivas Regal. It is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands.

Distilled on soft Isla valley water in traditional pot stills, building the classic Strathisla style. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. Around two decades the malt gains a fuller honey and a dried fruit weight. The unpeated make lets the wood and the fruit speak without smoke. Scarce as an official bottling, Strathisla was long bottled mainly by Gordon and MacPhail. The distillery has stood by the Isla since the reign of George III. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for.

At a natural 55.4% it is full and rich. A rich, fruity sweetness meet honeyed oak sweetness underneath. 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.