2002 Hidden Spirits Strathisla 15 Year Old 'Highproof' Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Few and far between are bottlings from this distillery which forms the foundation of the Chivas Regal blends (hence, why it's such a small player in terms of official bottlings). The 12 year old was reintroduced in 2002, but independents have been just as rare, most coming from Gordon & Macphail, and mostly of considerable age. Here we have another great selection from Italian bottler, Andrea Ferrari's 'Hidden Spirits' collection. Ferrari only makes selections after a rigorous 24 hours of tastings. Once at night before bed. In the morning and just before lunch. If the whisky doesn’t impress every time, it's struck off the list.

Tasting note: Deep gold. A delightfully different nose. Juicy fruit chewing gum, pineapple pudding, vanilla, pepper, then an array of orchard fruits (peach / apple / nectarine?) Stunning, fruity depths to the palate with a slow release of pear drops and grilled pineapple bursting late. Water further accents the melon / sweet spice notes. A near perfect cask results in a deeply satisfying, distinctive whisky. 51.2% Alc./Vol.