Distillery

Strathisla whiskies

Strathisla is a distillery in Keith, in Speyside, and one of the oldest and most beautiful in Scotland, with its two pagoda roofs and a water wheel by the River Isla. It belongs to Pernod Ricard and is the spiritual home of Chivas Regal, whose malt heart comes from here. Its own malt is uncommon, but much appreciated for its fruity, rich style with a touch of sherry.

Founded
1786
Owner
Pernod Ricard
Origin
Speyside, Scotland
In the catalogue
1 whisky

History, style and where to startSee it on the world map

  • Strathisla distillery, photo 1 of 3
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1 whisky

Guide to Strathisla

History

Strathisla claims a history going back to the 1780s, when it was founded under the name Milltown, and it is one of the oldest working distilleries in the Highlands. During the 19th century it changed name and owner several times, and suffered a fire and an explosion. In the middle of the 20th century, after a difficult period, it was bought by Chivas Brothers, then part of Seagram, which made it the home of Chivas Regal. Since 2001 it has belonged to Pernod Ricard, which keeps it as a visitor attraction linked to the brand.

House style

Strathisla has small stills and a full-bodied spirit, and its style combines ripe fruit, baked apple, honey, nuts, spice and a touch of sherry. Maturation in bourbon and sherry casks gives a rounded, rich whisky, with a medium, slightly spicy finish. It uses no peat. It is a classic Speyside, with more body than many of its neighbours. With age it gains notes of candied fruit and sweet spice.

Flavour profile of its whisky in the catalogue

Sweet
3.0
Fresh fruit
2.5
Ripe and dried fruit
2.0
Floral and herbal
1.0
Cereal and malt
2.0
Vanilla and creamy
1.5
Oak
1.5
Spicy
1.5
Toasted
1.5
Smoky
0.0
Maritime
0.0
Body and intensity
2.0

Where to start

Strathisla 12 Year Old is the catalogue’s expression and an excellent way to discover the heart of Chivas Regal: fruity, rich and with a touch of sherry. You’ll like it if you like rounded Speysides. Drink it neat or with a few drops of water. If you like it, compare it with Chivas Regal 12 Year Old to see how its character carries over into a blend.

This text was generated and translated by AI and may contain errors. Founding year, owner and official website come partly from Wikidata.

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