The Struie by Thompson Bros.: Highland Whisky with a Story

Whisky lovers are always looking for small-batch releases that offer something more than just taste—something with history, artistry and personality. That’s exactly what The Struie from Thompson Bros. brings to the table. While the name may be tricky to pronounce (it's “Stroo-ee”), the whisky itself is approachable, characterful, and deeply rooted in Scottish heritage.

A Highland Expression with a Unique Name

The Struie takes its name from a scenic hill in the Scottish Highlands, not far from the Thompson distillery in Dornoch. This hill, visible through misty landscapes and narrow roads, captures the wild and beautiful essence of northern Scotland. The choice of name reflects the whisky’s connection to its geographic roots and the rugged charm of Highland terrain.

What’s Inside the Bottle?

This limited release is a Highland single malt whisky that has been tankered in from another distillery and matured by Thompson Bros. Unlike younger expressions, The Struie boasts a respectable 9-year age statement, offering depth and complexity. It's bottled at 48.5% ABV, non-chill filtered and without added colouring, a nod to purity and authenticity.

Tasting notes reveal soft orchard fruits, subtle spice, and a gentle waxy texture on the palate. The finish is medium-long with a classic Highland dryness. It’s a whisky with balance, evolving layers and a very personal craft feel, perfect for both seasoned fans and curious newcomers.

A Label That Tells a Story

One of the first things you’ll notice is the minimalist label artwork. Created in collaboration with an artist from Zaragoza, Spain, the abstract design uses a single continuous line that snakes across the label. It’s open to interpretation—some see a human figure, others reinterpret it as a landscape.

This use of abstract art speaks to the Thompson Bros.’ unique aesthetic. Each release from them becomes a piece to contemplate—both visually and in flavour.

Limited but Not Elitist

Only around 1,800 bottles of The Struie were produced. While this makes the whisky relatively rare, it’s priced within reach for most whisky drinkers. It’s evident that the focus isn’t on hype or exclusivity, but rather on sharing a sincere product with thoughtful storytelling.

This strategy aligns with Thompson Bros.' ongoing commitment to transparency, local collaboration and dedication to craftsmanship. As independent bottlers and distillers, they continue to gain respect in the whisky community, not just for their products but for their passion and integrity.

Part of a Bigger Movement

Thompson Bros. is part of a wider wave of modern distillers reshaping the whisky landscape. By leaning into heritage, embracing design, and focusing on high-quality single malts, they offer a refreshing break from overly commercialised releases.

Curious to explore more about the growing independent Scotch whisky scene? Whisky Magazine offers valuable insight into emerging distilleries in Scotland (opens in new window).

Is It Worth Trying?

Absolutely. The Struie reflects meaningful production values, regional identity, and artistic presentation—all in one bottle. It’s not just about what’s in the glass, but also the story that comes with it. From the name inspired by local geography to the hand-drawn label and the thoughtful maturation, it captures what whisky lovers appreciate most: character.

Questions You Might Have

What does “Struie” mean?

Struie is the name of a hill in the Highlands of Scotland, near the Thompson Bros. distillery in Dornoch. It gives this release its identity and local flavour.

How do you pronounce The Struie?

It’s pronounced “Stroo-ee.”

Where is Thompson Bros. located?

They operate from Dornoch, a coastal town in the Scottish Highlands, known for its historical charm and beautiful landscapes.

Is The Struie a peated whisky?

No, this release is not heavily peated. It leans towards fruit-forward and lightly spiced Highland profile.

Is it chill-filtered or coloured?

No. The whisky is non-chill filtered and contains no added colour, preserving its natural character.

How limited is the release?

Only about 1,800 bottles were made, making it a collectible but still accessible for those who enjoy honest, small-batch whisky.