Strathisla The Distillery Reserve Collection 13 Years Old 2003

This Strathisla, an official release matured to 13 year old from 2003, drawn from cask 62274 and bottled at 58.3%. The outturn was 654 bottles. Strathisla was first licensed in 1786 on the banks of the Isla at Keith; it is among the prettiest distilleries in Scotland. 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. Ex-Sherry wood suited the full make, adding a dried fruit richness. At a youthful age the fruit is lively and the malt rich. Short stills give a weighty spirit that rewards long ageing. The distillery has stood by the Isla since the reign of George III. Short copper pot stills give the rich, full bodied make the distillery is known for.

At a hearty 58.3% it carries real weight. The Oloroso adds figgy dried fruit and a nutty edge, 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. Ripe pear and honey draw out the close. This is the malt of Scotland's oldest working Highland distillery.