1996 Gordon & Macphail Connoisseurs Choice Imperial 24 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

With one exception, Imperial has only ever been available via independent bottlings. Despite being established in 1897, by the 1970s (when single malts were just starting to become popular), the managers had dedicated the operation to filling blends. Ironically, when the single malt market came of age in the early 1990s, Imperial was closed! After changing owners several times, the distillery was finally demolished in 2013. Reports have it that remaining stocks are now genuinely low. No surprise that collectors are catching on.

According to Serge Valentin at whiskyfun.com, "mid-90s batches of Imperial are shy but hugely impressive. They share quite a bit with the likes of Clynelish and Ben Nevis from similar vintages, which can’t be a bad thing." Adding to the allure is the fact that Imperial is gone for good. Single cask bottlings at high strength will go fast. This G&M edition was distilled in 1996, with 215 bottles drawn from refill sherry hogshead #5602. 56.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.