Strathisla 25 Years Old Licensed Bottling (G&M)

Gordon & MacPhail selected this Strathisla, a 25 year old and bottled at 40%. Set in Keith, in the heart of Speyside, Strathisla has distilled since 1786. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make at its heart.

It was drawn off the distillery's short copper stills, for a fruity, honeyed spirit with real weight. Maturation came in ex-Bourbon wood, with vanilla under the orchard fruit. By this age the rich spirit rounds into honey, ripe pear and a nutty depth. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the honeyed, fruity core over time. 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. Water comes from the Broomhill Spring, the distillery set on the River Isla at Keith.

At 40% it is soft, fruity and creamy. A gentle vanilla and cream from the wood, with honey, ripe pear and a nutty almond. The mouthfeel is buttery, the fruit carried on a honeyed body. A warming, fruity finish lingers. This is the single malt of Scotland's prettiest distillery.