Strathisla 1965-2007 GM Reserve for JIS #2910

An exceptionally outstanding fruity Strathisla. Strathisla STRATHISLA 1965-2007 GM "RESERVE" for JIS #2910 49.1% one of 148 bottles, Refill Hogshead The aroma explodes with strong matured character, elegant and fruity notes, a captivating depth of grapefruit zest, passion fruit, lychee, a subtle hinoki (Japanese cypress) woodiness and old peat complexity. On the palate, it begins with a smooth mouthfeel that expands into an aromatic richness, mirroring the aroma's grapefruit zest and refreshing tropical freshness. The fruitiness is dominant with a gentle sweetness, while the old peat is more pronounced than in the aroma, leaving a lingering, intoxicating finish of fruit and peat. [Very Good/Excellent, Interesting] Bottled by GM in 2007 for the Japan Import System, this Reserve-labeled Strathisla 1965 has aged for approximately 42 years. From the first sniff, it delivers a powerful matured character and intoxicating depth of elegant fruitiness. The nuances resemble the grapefruit zest and tropical freshness found in 1960s Bowmore, with subtle hinoki-like notes typical of Strathisla from the 1960s, though entirely dominated by its fruitiness. On the palate, it expands with an aromatic richness and a clear, intoxicating fruitiness that mirrors the aroma. Notably, the old peat, which was less prominent in the aroma, asserts itself strongly within the fruitiness, creating a lasting, intoxicating finish. The aroma particularly reminded me of the unique fruity character found in the GlenGarry 1965, a special bottle for whisky fairs. I have never encountered such a Strathisla elsewhere. At the time of its release, it was highly favored and I drank it repeatedly, but upon tasting it again after a long time, I now clearly understand why I loved it so much. While the malty character is less pronounced, its outstanding fruitiness and absence of harsh cask influence, combined with the remaining alcohol content, provide a satisfying drinking experience. It is exceptionally delicious.