Strathisla 57 Years Old 1953 Cask #1609 (G&M)

This Strathisla was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail matured to 57 year old from 1953, drawn from cask 1609 and bottled at 43%. Strathisla was founded in 1786 by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire, and it has distilled without a break for well over two centuries. Its twin pagodas and water wheel make it one of the prettiest distilleries in Scotland.

Distilled on soft Isla valley water in traditional pot stills, building the classic Strathisla style. Ex-Sherry wood suited the full make, adding a dried fruit richness. Very old Strathisla turns profound, waxy and tropical yet still honeyed and fruity. Sherry wood suits the rich make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. Few distilleries can claim an unbroken run of distilling as long as Strathisla's. The Isla valley's soft water and old stills shape a honeyed, fruity spirit.

Bottled at 43%, it is rounded. The Oloroso lends raisin, fig and toasted nuts, and ripe orchard fruit and a gentle ginger sit alongside honeyed oak sweetness underneath. It is rounded and full, the fruity spirit shining through. It closes long, honeyed and fruity. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.