Strathisla

Established in 1786, Strathisla can reasonably claim to be one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland and, due to its extremely picturesque setting, is definitely one of the most photographed! Owned by Pernod Ricard, the distillery produces single malt whisky that forms the bedrock of two of the world's most famous premium blends - Chivas Regal and Royal Salute. The team at Strathisla produce around 2.5 million litres of whisky a year, running two wash stills and two spirit stills.

An official 12 Year Old is really the only consistent release from Strathisla, while Gordon and MacPhail have released a number of single vintage editions over the years which are well worth seeking out. While younger bottlings offer a mellow, orchard fruit character, Strathisla is well suited to long ageing in ex-Sherry casks, taking on notes of old leather, tobacco and ripe fruit as it matures.