Imperial 1995 (bottled 2014), Gordon & MacPhail, 43%

Introduction

Imperial 1995 is a precious time capsule from a now-silent distillery, carefully preserved and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers with a heritage spanning over a century.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley processed at the Imperial Distillery in Speyside, a facility that operated intermittently since 1897 before closing permanently in 1998
• Distillation process: Traditional Scottish pot still distillation, capturing Imperial’s characteristic light and fruity spirit profile
• Maturation: Aged for 19 years (1995-2014) in selected oak casks under Gordon & MacPhail’s expert supervision
• Special techniques: Benefiting from G&M’s renowned cask selection expertise and patient maturation approach

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Delicate orchard fruits, vanilla custard, and gentle oak spice with hints of honey and dried apricots
• Palate: Soft malt sweetness balanced with citrus notes, caramel, and subtle spice; light to medium-bodied with excellent clarity of flavor
• Finish: Medium length with lingering vanilla, gentle oak, and a touch of warming spice

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (15-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Glencairn whisky glass or tulip-shaped nosing glass
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a small drop of spring water to open up the complex flavors
• Food pairings: Light desserts such as vanilla panna cotta, shortbread, or mild cheeses

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 43% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: From Gordon & MacPhail, recipient of numerous industry awards including Independent Bottler of the Year

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Imperial 1995 offers a rare glimpse into the distinctive character of a distillery that has now disappeared from the Scotch whisky landscape forever.

With each passing year, bottles from this closed distillery become increasingly difficult to find, making this 19-year-old expression particularly coveted among collectors and enthusiasts.

Gordon & MacPhail’s impeccable reputation for identifying and preserving exceptional casks ensures that this bottling represents Imperial Distillery at its very finest.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts worldwide seek out Imperial bottlings for their gentle complexity and the unique profile that differs from today’s active Speyside distilleries.

Collectors who have committed to preserving Scotland’s whisky heritage consider Imperial releases essential components of a comprehensive collection.

The whisky community particularly values Gordon & MacPhail bottlings for their consistency and the company’s unparalleled access to rare casks that might otherwise never reach the market.

From Speyside’s Past to You

In selecting this exceptional whisky for bottling, Gordon & MacPhail has performed a valuable service for the whisky community, preserving a taste of Scottish distilling history.

The approachable 43% strength reflects Gordon & MacPhail’s thoughtful approach to presenting whiskies that balance authenticity with enjoyable drinking experiences.

By choosing this Imperial 1995, you join a community of discerning whisky enthusiasts who appreciate and preserve Scotland’s rich distilling heritage for future generations.