Strathisla 54 Years Old 1960 Cask #2539, 2555, 2581 (G&M)

Gordon & MacPhail bottled this Strathisla single malt, a 54 year old from 1960, drawn from cask 2539, 2555, 2581 and bottled at 43%. Strathisla was first licensed in 1786 in the old town of Keith on Speyside; it is among the prettiest distilleries in Scotland. The single malt is prized for its honeyed, fruity Speyside character.

The spirit was made in small copper onion stills for a full bodied spirit, for a rich, fruity make of real depth. Ex-Sherry wood suited the full make, adding a dried fruit richness. At forty years and more it is rich and waxy, tropical fruit, honey and old oak in a profound old malt. Refill oak lets the fruity distillery character lead, honey over orchard fruit. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for. Keith is one of Speyside's old whisky towns, north of the Cairngorms.

At an easy 43% it is gentle. The Oloroso adds figgy dried fruit and a nutty edge, and vanilla and a creamy note from the barrel runs under honey, apple and a soft spice. It is rich and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. Dried fruit and honey see out a long finish. This is an honeyed, fruity Speyside single malt.