Highland Park Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Description: Highland Park Cask Strength is a relatively new permanent addition to the distillery's core range, with releases occurring in annual batches, each potentially featuring a different cask makeup and flavor profile. Bottled straight from the cask without any reduction in alcohol content or chill-filtration, it aims to deliver the purest expression of Highland Park's spirit and the influence of the casks used for maturation. The whisky is matured predominantly in sherry-seasoned American oak casks of varying ages, hand-selected by the Master Whisky Maker.
Tasting Notes (can vary by batch, e.g., Release No. 1, 3, 4, 5):
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Nose: Expect a powerful yet balanced aroma that often combines sweet and smoky elements. Notes can include heather honey, vanilla, ripe fruit (like mango or citrus), aromatic peat smoke, violets, and hints of spice like nutmeg or aniseed. Some batches may exhibit more pronounced peat or charred oak notes.
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Palate: The palate is typically rich and full-bodied, reflecting the higher ABV. Flavors often include soft toffee, heather honey, freshly grated nutmeg, sun-ripened citrus fruits, dark chocolate, dried fruit, and sweet caramel. The signature Highland Park peat smoke is usually present, sometimes with a creamy texture and hints of spice like cinnamon or clove.
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Finish: The finish is generally long and satisfying, with a lingering warmth. The peat smoke often persists alongside notes of oak spice, dried fruits, toffee, and sometimes a subtle sweetness or a hint of sea salt.
Awards (can vary by batch): Highland Park Cask Strength releases have garnered significant recognition:
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Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (multiple years for different batches).
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Platinum at the Los Angeles Spirits Awards.
- Consistently high ratings and positive reviews from various whisky publications and reviewers.
Overall Impression: Highland Park Cask Strength offers a bolder and more intense experience of the distillery's signature character. By bottling at natural cask strength, it allows the full spectrum of flavors developed during maturation to shine through. While the high ABV requires careful sipping (often benefiting from a few drops of water), it rewards with a complex and satisfying dram that beautifully balances Highland Park's hallmark sweetness, spice, and heathery smoke. Each batch offers a unique exploration of cask influence, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts looking to experience the distillery's spirit in its purest form.
