First Impressions
Twenty-five years is a serious commitment, and Strathisla wears the time with grace. The colour is old gold, the texture almost oily in the glass, and the nose carries that unmistakable antique-honey quality of well-aged Speyside.
Distillery and Heritage
Founded in 1786 at Keith in Banffshire, Strathisla is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Highlands and the historic heart of Chivas Regal. The distillery's water comes from the Fons Bulliens well, which has served local distilling since the 13th century when Dominican monks reputedly used it for their beer. Single malt releases from Strathisla are scarce — the lion's share of the spirit is reserved for blending — and aged expressions like the 25 are bottled only occasionally.
Tasting Notes in Detail
The sherry cask influence is more assertive here than in the 18, bringing dried fruit and walnut to bear on the waxy house character. The oak has had a long time to speak, and it does so without ever shouting — tannin is present but polished smooth. A drop of water opens leather and orange oil.
Verdict
A dignified old Speysider. The kind of dram that rewards patience in the glass as much as in the cask.
