Strathisla 48 Years Old 1963 Cask #565 & 566 (G&M)

This Strathisla was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, a 48 year old Speyside malt from 1963, drawn from cask 565 & 566 and bottled at 43%. 1231 bottles in all. Built in 1786 on the River Isla on the banks of the Isla at Keith, Strathisla is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. Its twin pagodas and water wheel make it one of the prettiest distilleries in Scotland.

The spirit was run through onion shaped stills with long necks for a rich make, to build a creamy, orchard fruit character. An Oloroso sherry cask wrapped the rich spirit in dried fruit and a nutty depth. Very old Strathisla turns profound, waxy and tropical yet still honeyed and fruity. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. 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.

At 43% it is smooth and honeyed. Raisin, date and a nutty sherry depth build, and ripe orchard fruit and a gentle ginger sit alongside soft vanilla and honey from the cask. It is rounded and full, the fruity spirit shining through. It finishes clean, fruity and rich. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.