What happened to Strathisla 12, the now discontinued 12 year old single malt produced at Chivas Brothers' Strathisla distillery? As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can shed some light on this.
Strathisla distillery, located in Keith, Scotland, is one of the oldest distilleries in the country, with a rich history dating back to 1786. It is known for producing high-quality single malt whiskies, including the popular Strathisla 12.
However, in recent years, Chivas Brothers, the parent company of Strathisla distillery, made the decision to discontinue the Strathisla 12 expression. This move came as a surprise to many whisky enthusiasts who enjoyed the distinct character and flavor profile of this particular whisky.
There could be several reasons behind the discontinuation of Strathisla 12. One possible reason is the evolving tastes and preferences of whisky drinkers. The whisky market is constantly changing, and distilleries often need to adapt to meet consumer demands. Perhaps Chivas Brothers felt that the Strathisla 12 was no longer aligning with the current trends and decided to make way for new expressions that would better cater to the evolving market.
Another factor could be the availability of aged whisky stocks. Producing a 12 year old single malt requires a substantial amount of time and resources, including the aging process. It is possible that Chivas Brothers faced challenges in sourcing enough aged whisky to sustain the production of Strathisla 12 on a consistent basis. As a result, they may have decided to discontinue the expression rather than compromising on quality or consistency.
Additionally, the decision to discontinue a whisky expression can also be influenced by business strategies and market conditions. Whisky distilleries often release limited editions or special expressions to create excitement and demand among consumers. By retiring a core expression like Strathisla 12, Chivas Brothers may have aimed to create a sense of rarity and exclusivity around their remaining offerings.
It is worth noting that discontinuations are not uncommon in the whisky industry. Distilleries frequently make adjustments to their product portfolios to stay competitive and meet changing consumer demands. While it can be disappointing for enthusiasts to see a beloved whisky disappear from the shelves, it also opens up opportunities to explore new expressions and discover hidden gems.
The discontinuation of Strathisla 12, the 12 year old single malt produced at Chivas Brothers' Strathisla distillery, can be attributed to various factors such as evolving consumer preferences, availability of aged whisky stocks, and business strategies. While it may be disappointing for fans of this expression, it also presents an opportunity to explore other whiskies and appreciate the ever-changing landscape of the whisky industry.