Strathisla 59 Years Old 1954 Cask #907 (G&M)

Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, this Strathisla, a 59 year old Speyside malt from 1954, drawn from cask 907 and bottled at 43%. Set on the banks of the Isla at Keith, Strathisla has distilled since 1786. 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. A sherry butt held it, the wood lending raisin and walnut. Very old Strathisla turns profound, waxy and tropical yet still honeyed and fruity. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. Keith is one of Speyside's old whisky towns, north of the Cairngorms. The distillery is a centrepiece of the Malt Whisky Trail and the home of Chivas. Gordon and MacPhail have released Strathisla vintages reaching back to the 1930s and 1950s.

At an easy 43% it is gentle. Raisin, date and a nutty sherry depth build, 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. The close is warm, fruit over soft oak. This is a rich Speyside malt from the home of Chivas.