Strathisla 12 years

Score: 55

Strathisla 12 Year Old came in last place in the tasting, a gentle dram that simply didn’t stand up to the bolder expressions on the night. From one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, this Speyside single malt is light, fruity, and sherry-rich, but ultimately too delicate to leave a lasting impression. The nose offers soft oak, candied peel, floral notes, and a touch of spice and Danish pastry. On the palate, it’s a malty core with flavors of sultanas, cinnamon pastries, cooked apple, and a hint of mince pie sweetness. The booze and sweetness interplay creates a light treat, and while it’s pleasant, it feels like a very different sort of malt whisky, more summery sipper than serious contender. It’s easy to imagine it lending itself to refreshing long or short cocktails, if you could bring yourself to put a single malt into one. But on its own, it lacked the weight, complexity, and finish to compete. The finish is long and fruity, but unremarkable. It flatters the palate, but never quite delivers a memorable close. A whisky that’s inoffensive, approachable, and best suited for casual sipping or cocktail experimentation—not for stealing the spotlight in a club tasting.