Strathisla 40 Years Old 1967 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

A Strathisla single malt, selected and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, a 40 year old Speyside malt from 1967 and bottled at 43%. Built in 1786 on the River Isla in the old town of Keith on Speyside, Strathisla is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. Strathisla is the fruity heart of Chivas Regal, owned by Chivas Brothers since 1950.

The spirit was made in small copper onion stills for a full bodied spirit, for a rich, fruity make of real depth. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the fruity character to the fore. At forty years and more it is rich and waxy, tropical fruit, honey and old oak in a profound old malt. Dunnage warehousing on site gives a slow, humid maturation. 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 43% it is soft, fruity and creamy. Vanilla and a creamy note from the barrel, with pear, honey and a buttery malt. The texture is rich and creamy, the fruit lifted by honey. The finish runs rich, nutty and warm. This is a rich, honeyed Speyside single malt.