Highland Park 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky
Description: Highland Park 12 Year Old, often referred to as "Viking Honour" since a rebranding in 2017, is the flagship single malt from the esteemed Highland Park Distillery, located on the Orkney Islands off the north coast of Scotland. Established in 1798, Highland Park is one of Scotland's oldest distilleries and uniquely situated outside the traditional Highland region, lending its whiskies a distinct "Island" character. This 12-year-old expression is revered for its balanced and complex profile, achieved through maturation in a high proportion of sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks, along with a touch of local Orkney peat in the malting process.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Expect a fragrant and inviting aroma with notes of heather honey and a subtle, aromatic peat smoke that is characteristic of Orkney whiskies. Hints of fresh citrus, often Seville oranges or tangerine, and a touch of floral sweetness can also be present. Some detect notes of spiced fruitcake and a gentle maritime breeze.
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Palate: The palate offers a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes. Heather honey and vanilla are prominent, alongside flavors of dried fruit, warm winter spices like cinnamon and clove, and a gentle, smoky undertone. The influence of the sherry casks contributes a rich maltiness and sometimes hints of toffee or brown sugar.
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Finish: The finish is typically medium to long, with a lingering warmth. The subtle peat smoke fades gracefully, often accompanied by notes of sweet spice, a touch of citrus zest, and a final hint of the heather honey.
Awards: Highland Park 12 Year Old has consistently received high praise and numerous awards over the years, including:
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Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (multiple years).
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Gold Medal at The Fifty Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky Awards.
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96 Points, Great Value, Tried & True Award at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2019).
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Best Relaunch Design at the World Whiskies Awards (2018) for the "Viking Honour" presentation.
Overall Impression: Highland Park 12 Year Old is a highly regarded and versatile single malt that beautifully balances sweetness, spice, and a gentle, heathery smoke. Its approachable yet complex character makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced whisky drinkers. The influence of the sherry casks and the unique Orkney peat contribute to a well-rounded and memorable dram that truly embodies the spirit of its island home. It's excellent neat, with a drop of water, or in classic whisky cocktails.