Strathisla 45 Years Old 1967 Licensed Bottling (G&M)

Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, this Strathisla, a 45 year old release from 1967 and bottled at 43%. Strathisla was first licensed in 1786 on the banks of the Isla at Keith; it is among the prettiest distilleries in Scotland. Founded as the Milltown distillery, it took the Strathisla name in the 19th century.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. Maturation in Oloroso sherry laid dried fruit over the honeyed malt. Decades leave it deep and oxidative, candied fruit and beeswax with great age. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. 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.

Bottled at 43%, it is rounded. The Oloroso lends raisin, fig and toasted nuts, and orchard fruit and a creamy honey sit alongside soft vanilla and honey from the cask. A baked apple and a warm ginger lift it. Ripe pear and honey draw out the close. This is a rich Speyside malt from the home of Chivas.