Strathisla 33 Years Old 1987 Cask #3052 (Connoisseurs Choice)

This is a Strathisla single malt, chosen and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, a 33 year old Speyside malt from 1987, drawn from cask 3052 and bottled at 55.4%. A release of 121 bottles. Built in 1786 on the River Isla on the banks of the Isla at Keith, Strathisla is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. 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. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. Past twenty five years the spirit turns honeyed and full while keeping its fruit. The cool Speyside climate gives a slow, even maturation over many years. 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 55.4%, undiluted, it is deep and honeyed. A rich, fruity sweetness meet soft vanilla and honey from the cask. Beneath it run honey, pear and a soft spice. It finishes clean, fruity and rich. This is the fruity Speyside heart of Chivas Regal.