Strathisla 44 Years Old 1964 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

Gordon & MacPhail bottled this Strathisla single malt, a 44 year old Speyside malt from 1964 and bottled at 43%. First licensed in 1786 in the Speyside town of Keith, Strathisla is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. The single malt is prized for its honeyed, fruity Speyside character.

Distilled in short copper pot stills on Broomhill Spring water, giving the honeyed, full bodied spirit at its heart. An Oloroso sherry cask wrapped the rich spirit in dried fruit and a nutty depth. At this great age the malt is full and mellow, the fruit deep and the oak polished. A patient maturation suits the rich, fruity Strathisla character. 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. Sherried dried fruit and a walnut richness come through, and the refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under honey, apple and a soft spice. It is rich and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. The finish runs rich, nutty and warm. This is an honeyed, fruity Speyside single malt.