Strathisla Batch 1 The end of the world (TBWC)

Single malt Strathisla, an independent That Boutique-y Whisky Company bottling, aged 10 year old from 2013 and bottled at 51.5%. Just 486 bottles were filled. Strathisla was founded in 1786 by the Isla in Keith, Banffshire, and it has distilled without a break for well over two centuries. Long scarce as an official bottling, Strathisla was for decades bottled mainly by Gordon and MacPhail.

Distilled on soft Isla valley water in traditional pot stills, building the classic Strathisla style. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the fruity character to the fore. At this age the spirit is fresh and fruity, the pear and honey bright. The unpeated make lets the wood and the fruit speak without smoke. Gordon and MacPhail have released Strathisla vintages reaching back to the 1930s and 1950s. Dunnage warehouses on site give a slow, humid maturation by the river. The make leans rich and fruity, fuller than the lighter Speyside style.

Bottled at a cask strength 51.5%, it is concentrated. Apple, almond and a warm spice meet honeyed oak sweetness underneath. Soft orchard fruit and almond sit behind the sweetness. It closes long, honeyed and fruity. This is Strathisla's classic honeyed Speyside style.