Whiskey Stratayla (Strathisla): history, review of taste and types

One of the most famous alcoholic brands in Scotland, Stratayla whiskey is produced at the distillery of the same name, located in the Highlands region.

Delicious single malt scotch is traditionally part of the Chivas Brothers blends, being their heart and soul.

Strathisla is also produced in a single version, not only by the owners of the distillery, but also by independent Scottish bottlers: Douglas Laing, Hart Brothers, Gordon & MacPhail.

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Brand History

The Strathisla distillery, the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Highlands region, was built in the town of Keith on the banks of the River Islay in 1786 and was originally called “Milltown”.

It is known that before the construction of the distillery, a monastery functioned on the same place, which became famous for its strong heather ale and the holy spring of Naomh, beating right from the ground and protected by “spirits”. Crystal clear water from the spring is used today to distill malt spirits.

The first owners of the plant were George Taylor and Alexander Milne.

In the XNUMXth century, the distillery was twice destroyed and literally rebuilt from the ashes: first after a fire, then after an explosion.

In 1886, at the Edinburgh International Congress, Stratile Scotch received an honorary diploma in the Old Highland Malt Whiskey category.

In the middle of the XNUMXth century, the plant was owned by Russian-born financier Jay Pomeroy, who was convicted of fraud and tax evasion. It was he who renamed the enterprise, composing the name from the characteristics of the area: “Strath” is translated as “mountain valley”, and “Isla” is the river flowing nearby.

In 1951, the distillery became the property of the Chivas Brothers company and subsequently became part of Pernod Ricard together with it. At the suggestion of the new owners of whiskey, Stratayla has become not only a component of blends, but also began to be sold as a separate drink.

Interesting facts about the distillery

  1. The roof of the enterprise is crowned with graceful pagodas.

    Because of which she received the title of “the most picturesque distillery in the region.”

    The image of the famous towers can be seen on the bottles of the 12-year-old single malt from the Chivas Brothers.

  2. The distillation stills of the plant have a special design with an inclined “neck”

    It is believed that it is thanks to this form that the heaviest and most oily spirits in all of Speyside are obtained here.

    When replacing equipment, the manufacturer tries to copy the smallest flaws and dents so as not to disturb the usual taste.

  3. A visit to the distillery is included in the program of most Scottish whiskey tours.

    During which you can taste both “pure” Stratayla and included in blends.

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An overview of the types of Strataille whiskey

  1. Strathisla 12 Years

    The most famous single malt from the Chivas Brothers. Aged in oak barrels dark gold colored scotch 40-43% ABV.

    Aroma: balanced, fresh, with citrus, oak, vanilla notes.

    In a soft, sweetish taste, tones of fruits, sherry, herbs, pastries, flowers are felt.

    The finish is warming, slightly burning.

  2. Strathisla от Gordon and MacPhail

    The company’s clients include the parliaments of many European countries.

    Before being sold, Stratile scotch undergoes additional aging in vintage Kentucky bourbon barrels. The maturation period can exceed 50 years.

    With aging, accents of chocolate, spices, molasses appear in the taste.

    In proportion to age, the cost of drinks also increases.

    Rare collector’s items are valued at 2-3 thousand dollars, young versions of “Stratile” can be purchased for 30-50. The fortress varies from 40 to 52%.

  3. Strathisla 14 Years Old от Hart Brothers

    Part of the line of rare single malt whiskeys from the Finest Collection series, aged and bottled by a family-owned wholesale company.

    Fruity-floral and creamy-vanilla notes predominate in the hazelnut-colored scotch. Fortress: 46%.

    You can buy a drink for about $150.

  4. Strathisla 21 Years Old от Douglas Laing

    Whiskey distilled in 1991, aged in oak for two decades.

    Bottled at 50% ABV and released as a limited edition (156 bottles) in February 2013 as part of the “Old Malt Cask” series. Bottler is an independent family company, Douglas Laing and Co.

    The drink has a spicy aroma with notes of pepper and acacia, a sweet taste with hints of honey, milk chocolate and malt, a smooth finish with hints of ginger and smoke.

They drink Stratayla as a digestif, in its pure form or in company with a cigar.

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Relevance: 26.05.2019

Tags: Whiskey and bourbon, Whiskey brands

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