Highland Park 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)

Very more-ish. A delightful sipping malt. Amongst the best.

29th July 2020

On the nose, decent.

ON the palette... What on earth is that horrid horrid taste? Blaaaa!!!

Tipped it down the sink and gave the rest of the bottle away.

6th March 2020

Bought a bottle of the Viking 12. I found it disappointing. Much better out there!

10th September 2019

I had never heard of your label until a good friend gave me a bottle on my 60th birthday celebration. Needless to say, I am now a fan. Beautiful packaging, wonderful coloring, and an aroma and taste that will be now enjoyed for years to come. I am a new convert. Thank you for such a top shelf product. Cheers.

17th May 2019

Keeping an open mind, I purchased a second bottle of the new Viking Honor 12 y.o., as I was disappointed the the first one. No way is this the same dram as the older bottlings, tastes much more spirit-driven, lacks the complexity and roundness it had, even just a few years ago. Long been a fan, but most likely will not buy another bottle, and I certainly will not pay insane prices for the new NAS special editions.

6th May 2019

I loved the old HP 12 - it had such a unique, proprietary character. Peaty in a unique way that wasn’t smoky and salty like Islay, but was great, memorable, emotionally binding and boldy differentiated itself from all other scotch. The new ‘Viking Honor’ 12 doesn’t capture that same magic for me. To my palate, it doesn’t differentiate itself much from mainland Highland juice.
So odd to hear HP’s marketers explain the new branding as seeking to hit the emotional connection. It’s the damn DRINK that does that, not the damn WRAPPER! :-(

9th February 2019

£28 in co-op today - late November 2018. Old stock !

I would happily buy this again - OK its not FANTASTIC like some claim, but certainly streets ahead in terms of quality compared to the current viking bollox brand. Perhaps they simply used decent casks then, and have not notthered buying any new once since.

24th November 2018

Amazing dram!

8th November 2018

Just 3 bottles left, and no-where to replenish!
Old bottle HP12 was more rounded, caramelly and softer on the palate. The replacement "Viking Honour" is much lighter and harsher - and not as lingering in the aftertaste.
I was assured at HP Distillery that the recipe is the same - if that is correct, then the difference may be due to the barrels used - perhaps the old bottle used Portuguese sourced sherry or port barrels, and the new only American oak. But the new is not a patch on the old (which was my favorite "entry-level malt" for over 35 years.

6th November 2018

Managed to get my hands on one of the old bottlings and forgot how balanced it is. Just enough honey, fruit, smoke and spicyness. Soon to be extinct this is a bottle to find and hide away now!

27th June 2018

Ottimo!!! Speziato al giusto. Ottimo Ottimo Ottimo.

27th May 2018

Good video straight talking no messing description!

7th March 2018

Amazing taste!

25th February 2018

This is a proper Highland Park for me. I dare say it's on par if not better than the new Viking Pride 18 in terms of smoothness. Do get one if you have a chance.

16th February 2018

The "old" bottle in the picture above is what I got about 2 years ago (it was Ralfy-recommended). I love the expression and trying to stretch the half-bottle for special occasions. Would give 5 stars at 46% with no chill-filtering and no colorant. At least it's 43% in the US. But the viking drek is gaudy and with all the negative reviews I'm hesitant to even try it. So many are saying that it's gone downhill. Here's a thought, HP: how about a proper single malt bottle (a round bottle like Ardbeg, Lagavulin or Glenlivet, maybe with the neck slightly resembling a still), either clear to show off the NATURAL color or dark to protect from UV. And actually tasty whisky in the bottle like it was!

2nd February 2018

I do not generally enjoy the peaty style of presentations of scotch, but this one really intrigued me. For a relatively young age of scotch, this is fantastic. Certainly not complex or a heavy linger, it tastes more sophisticated than it lets on. If you are a beginner to scotch, this is a very good place to start. I don't know if there are any differences between this and the new bottling, but I hope to find out soon.

1st February 2018

Absolutely wonderful with an ever so slight and pleasant sweetness. A nice finish with hints of smoke and peat.

1st January 2018

Fantastic flavour.a very nice drink.great with a barberque.or just on its own.warm taste the peat smoked.cant beat it.aged for 12 years. Wow

25th December 2017

Good body, rich sherry, full and sweet.
inviting aromatic wood smoke.

quite delicious.

lacks integration however - what you see is what you get.

28th November 2017

Liked the Old 12 y much more. The new is not at that tasty. A big disappointment.

7th October 2017

Never fails to satisfy on the nose I get creamy porridge oats honey peaches strawberries and cream tangerines and fruit cake the Taste is fruit cake with marzipan and sweet icing and a taste of very light pipe tobacco smoke coming through
The finish oak and the pipe tobacco smoke becomes stronger but not intense very smooth and satisfying

2nd September 2017

Had it in a bar a couple of years ago, but didn't like it much then. Now on offer in supermarket and picket up a bottle. And I love it. There is a sulfur-like, old wood, pipe tobacco sweet sublte, smokeyness to it that keeps me wanting more!

1st September 2017

I'm getting a wee bit peaty smoky undertones and soft honey toffee on the palate. The nose is creamy and toffee. It's spirity on the taste with a slight old rolling tobacco aftertaste. Not too bad and one I'd buy again.

6th August 2017

I did not find either the depth or the complexity. It's good for the price, I suppose, but I think I'm done with it. I did finish the bottle though. So, it's either not so bad, or I was quite thirsty!

27th July 2017

Heather, infused with an oaky char and fresh fruits. Simply a well balanced and delicious dram. I'm in!!

20th July 2017

Switched from an old favorite to try Highland Park 12 and really rather disappointed as found the flavor was just a bit lacking as didn't find the depth mentioned in the tasting notes. There's better single malts out there for the same price

12th July 2017

Tried this one at a Scotch Tasting and surpassed all candidates with its overall complexity in the nose and palette. Brine, heather, toffee, spicy, dried fruits, wood, and a hint of smoke in the back. Superbly balanced and matured in oloroso sherry casks to give the natural coloring in this non chill filtered nectar of the gods! Freeeeeeeedom.

3rd July 2017

Highland park 12 anni ti lascia senza parole, molti sentori che avvolgono il palato, veramente ottimo. Per ogni goccia che assapori, devi lasciarti cullare dalla fantasia, e immaginazione.

15th June 2017

So... the legendary Highland Park 12, an 'Emperor's new clothes' bottle that everyone claims to worship. Well its not very good, yes the nose is wonderful, but in the mouth its quite frankly rough and spirity - god knows where this whisky was for 12 years, but it certainly wasnt maturing in decent casks.

The price is about right - but you would be better off with a bottle of Teachers.

14th June 2017

Delicious! enough said.

10th June 2017

This is a whisky that is indelibly delicious. All the marks of a masterful craft embodied in the Highland Park tradition of smoke, heather, honey , bonfire, toffee, brine and " salivatory" sweetness. Bottle it at 46% is my only request.

5th June 2017

Tried this for the first time after a friend recommended it. An explosion of flavor . Who cares about the smell if it tastes good going down!!!

18th May 2017

This dram boasts a smokey note that does not overpower the sweet dried fruit that is prominent in the background. Hints of Christmas cake, honey, green apples and sherry are definite notes on the palate. It is non chill filtered and no caramel added which makes this single malt worth every cent.

18th May 2017

Always quick to disappear in my cabinet. Everyone likes it. Great quality for the price.

16th April 2017

This was my first bash at Highland Park, lovely smell, I thought even better with a touch of water. The taste I preferred neat though. I thought quite a balanced flavour with nothing over powering. Pretty smooth with a great feeling in the throat

17th March 2017

THE most reviewed 12 year old... Bought the 43% version on sale for $58 CAD.

It is a very well balance scotch and I think everyone should try it at least once... just to learn what a benchmark Island/Highland hybrid is supposed to be like... Just like the Balvenie 12 yr old Double Wood to the Speyside and Glenmorangie 10 year old to the beginners.

Nose: smoke, honey, floral (heather?), mango
Palate: honey, mango, pineapple, green tea
Finish: spice, pepper, black tea, smoke

Let sit for 3 hours in another occasion. The smoke subsided and floral takes over. But as a whole became less interesting.

My mistake is that I didn't try it until 6 years and 40+ bottles later.

Now this very well balanced scotch came across as bland to me, not because it is bad, but mostly because my taste buds have already out-grown it.

22nd February 2017

For the price you will really struggle to get better than this. There are better whiskies out there but for an everyday dram you can't go wrong with highland park 12 yo.

14th February 2017

really nice with pepsi and some ice

2nd February 2017

I have 43% love it daily drinker

1st February 2017

Bought this for £25 so I could have a cheaper bottle to tuck into from time to time.
It's ok, drinkable, though not special. So for me it's not worth the 5 star praise. At all.

22nd January 2017

I found it just okay. After everything I read, I was under the impression that HP 12 was THE 12 year old scotch. I thought maybe it would improve over time. Had the bottle about 9 months and although it did improve a bit, I never really warmed up to it.

22nd January 2017

Subtly smokey, and very flavourful. Great scotch on a budget!

6th January 2017

I'm new to scotch and first let me say, I LOVE IT!!! That being said, not all scotchs are created equally. I really love this one. All the high praises are warranted.

4th January 2017

My favourite Scotch. Love the taste. Great quality.

3rd January 2017

Looks like the Vikings left behind more than just a few relics of time. In the coastal ground, there is precious peat laden with heather. Both elements found in the famous drink of the Orkney highlands... Highland Park 12. A "dram-atic" history indeed.

9th December 2016

Love the smokey sweet and savory delight. Highland Park classic here people! A dram that can be complimented by smokey chips, salty fish, and cured meats. Enjoy a dram over the holiday season as I will. Cheers.

1st December 2016

I've got this in 43% abv and WOW! What a nice sweet, fruity, spicy number this is and the little hit of sweet smoke at the end..... sends this babay over the top. EXCELLENT!

25th November 2016

Sweet, complex, with a nice hint of smoke... simply a masterpiece.

11th November 2016

This dram is a balance of fresh fruit with a mild peat and a smokey blast. Would have liked it presented at 46% ABV but all given, it is a dynamic Scotch with complex elements and a rewarding finish. A great everyday Scotch for those with a discerning taste.

8th November 2016

Tasted many expensive single malts from the Orkney region and the HP12 bodes well for those who love a smokey note with a tinge of woody sherried cask. For the price, this dram is by far a keeper on my shelf. For those who love strong peat, look the other way, nothing to see here. :)

20th October 2016

First things first - this (in the UK) is a good value whisky. usually between £25 - £35 in most supermarkets and so available as well. It really is a good all rounder and I find the smoke and sweet sherry notes stand out in what is a well balanced dram. Yes it could be 46%, NCF - it is natural colour though :) - but for the money you get an easy drinking, fairly interesting malt that I would happily have in my stash! It really is like a good malt blend that has a bit of everything.

Good for beginners or those who want to try a more peaty/smoky offering - but don't expect an Ardbeg or Laphroaig in that sense.

18th October 2016

Just re-trying Highland Park 12 after realising I hadn't had it in over a year and couldn't remember why. I used to think it was the best whisky out there when I first got into the good stuff; it's 'all-rounder' profile and smooth-sweetness appealed to me. It still strikes me for its sweetness and velvety mouthfeel, but having now tried a range of sherried speysiders and rich malty highlanders, HP's flavour seems sacarine and lacking body. It goes without saying that peat-heads will also be disappointed by this, as the 'orcadian' peat smoke misses out the iodine and sea-salt notes completely.

14th October 2016

Major disappointment, I'm sure this one was better in the past to deserve all those great reviews (all rounder. and so on). I did not find anything special (or even "decent") for this price and reputation.

10th October 2016

Drinking neat: lovely earthy peat, brine, charred oak, floral, tangerine, grapefruit, custard, sugar sweet, jasmine, citrus, bandaid. It is in fact a very well rounded dram. Like a mix between a Highland, Islay, & a Speyside; with each playing a equal role. The first thing that hits you it the peat smoke and brine, followed by the rich decadence of a Highland mix with a floral and fruity Speyside. I've heard about Highland Park since first taking an interest in Scotch and with it, high praise and recommendation. I'd say it's a very enjoyable whiskey that I will happily consume but would I put it on the same pedestal as my Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, Lagavulin 16, or Laphroaig Triple Wood? Not likely. In fact, when I first took a sniff and sip of this from the bottle I grabbed my Laphroaig Triple Wood to compare the peat. I nosed and sipped the Laphroaig and immediately realized it was world's better than the Highland Park. I'll say though, HP is very balanced and gives the best of all three regions listed above. It's definitely worth a try.

1st October 2016

Our first of a whiskey tasting session. Pleasant and honest - open and fresh at the nose, an impression upheld by the rounded, lightly convex palate. Grilled orange as yet undiscovered.

9th September 2016

So this bottle was suggested to me as a way to ease myself into peated whisky (if you're a whisky expert take my comments with a grain of salt, if you're new to peated whisky this review may help). My first few sips were somewhat reminiscent of rubber, salt, smoke, etc, all of the things I had heard peat should taste like and I was slightly put off. when I set my empty glass down after the first dram, the salty aftertaste had me craving more. Now my mouth waters every time I smell Highland Park 12. If you want to try peated whisky but are hesitant, start with this one!! You'll come to crave the salty and mildly smokey flavors this whisky offers as the pear and honey notes begin to stand out. A marvelous blend of so many flavors and the mouthful is so silky. Enjoy!

7th September 2016

Smokey, peaty, peppery, heathery, a silky sweet combo of marzipan and sherried oak. No wonder it tastes like heaven. A complexity that is hard to match at the cost. Keep up the great work Highland Park!

23rd August 2016

This used to be the ultimate all rounder. These days, the pressure on stocks has reduced it to an insipid harsh remnant of its former self.. Still a bit of heather, honey and smoke, but it's backbone is abrasive and thin. Buy a bottle of 12 yr old from the 1990's and you'll see what I mean.

21st August 2016

The best 12 year old Scotch bar none!

17th August 2016

This Scotch is worth every cent. A succulent burst of sweet peppery wood, heather and a smokey sweet presentation that makes your mouth water. The nose has fresh fruity notes with a hint BBQ chips in the background. Truly a great dram that will never disappoint. Just sayin'.

17th August 2016

For the price you can't expect much. Save up and go for the 21 year old. It's much better.

5th August 2016

My tastes in Scotch tend to be quite diverse, though I find my favorites are the Islay Scotches (Laguavulin, Caol Ila, and Laphroig) and Oban's 14 Year. Compared to those, I find the HP 12 year a bit rubbery and astringent. The smoke is there, but I miss the heavier sweetness that follows some of the smokier Islays, or the smoothness of the Oban. Granted, the price points of those and this are different. Will I turn it down if offered a glass? Probably not. Have I found others that I like better? Definitely.

1st August 2016

I can't wait to find someone who will accept this bottle. Made me think of bad roadside bbq soaked in liquid smoke...just not enjoyable at all.

29th July 2016

As I read the reviews some people just want to drink whisky. Other people want to taste whisky, now that's where the difference in opinion comes in, if Highland Park 12 year old is thrown down ones neck you miss an awful lot of flavours, hold it taste it and to a taster rather than a drinker it is a really flavourful single malt. I love it plenty of after aftermath if you take the time

9th July 2016

Drinkable, but terrible compared to talisker or springbank

30th June 2016

I've tried many a scotch - and Highland Park is my favorite. It's just right with the peat flavor, easy (too easy) to drink - and my wife loves the way it tastes on my lips. So this gets a two thumbs up from me and the wifey :)

31st May 2016

Terrible

15th May 2016

The drink is so smooth yet surprisingly strong in nature. Great drink!!!!

13th May 2016

Bought this again recently and it was just as good as I remember sherry peaty coastal perfection incredibly balanced well rounded as they come damn good island whisky . The sugarbear

9th May 2016

This is one of the best, most balanced whiskies I've ever had. It opens up very sweet and finishes with beautiful, gentle smoke. On the front I can sometimes (depending on the bottle) detect a strong flavor of buttered bread. Plenty of honey comes before the smoke. The finish, as best I can describe, tastes of twigs. The 15 was even better and more pronounced but sadly has been replaced by a NAS.

6th May 2016

My girlfriend bought me a bottle of Highland Park 12 and I must say it is incredible. I tasted the 10 and the 12 one after the other and the difference is huge! Looking forward to tasting the Talisker 10 or the Benriach 12, but so far this is my very favorite.

27th April 2016

I picked this up as it was on offer in my local supermarket and i must say its a very enjoyable drink, its very subtle and surprisingly smooth with a nice smoky aftertaste which is not overpowering as you also get a lingering creamy feel which just makes you want another glass! Perfect with ice as when the ice melts its brings out its full flavour

15th April 2016

This is a scotch drinkers scotch. The kind of scotch to come home to, enjoy and take the edge off a long day or even longer week! I prefer the 12 to the 18. Less peaty than the 18, smoother with a slightly smokey taste. If you are looking for gift bottle - this is it. Easy to drink but sophisticated.

9th April 2016

I started drinking this whisky thinking it was nothing special, after a couple of weeks it was a quarter full. After that more and more I found it undrinkable. Think of eating a pizza with chocolate, vegetables, and ingredients that really don't go together and you have this. I gave it a chance but it makes me want to throw up. It is one of the worst whiskys I have had. I even found a $27 speyburn 10 that was much better than this although very different taste.

For some comparison,
I love Ardbeg, Laphroaig, macallan, balvenie, etc. these are my types of whiskey.

30th March 2016

Riktigt bra, stor fyllighet i kropp och doft. Mycket bra.

9th March 2016

Love this expression from Orkney. It´s complex and with perfect peat-smoke.

8th March 2016

I really like this. But it seems to be missing something in the mouth. Flavors are great, and finish is wonderful, but it seems a bit watery on the palate...poor batch?

26th February 2016

Reminds me of a Glenmorangie with a touch of smoke

13th February 2016

Not quite the 18yr, but a much greater value!

8th February 2016

I am a big fan of peated whiskeys and I tried it after a recommendation, liked it but not crazy about it, like Talisker Or Lagavulin.. Smooth, almost light whiskey I enjoyed it but it lucks a bit of complexity in the mouth ..

6th February 2016

Having tried many different scotches within the last few months, this scotch definitely seems to encompass many flavors that others "corner." This has such a sweet floral arrival that transitions quickly into a very slight peat and smokey sweet finish with a hint of pepper. I certainly do love its complexity for the price..honestly for my palate I cannot think of a price for performance that can beat it.

31st January 2016

The best by a mile. So smooth, so balanced, not overpowering or medicinal like an islay. A bottle that will quickly disappear when you start drinking!!

27th January 2016

I was not a whisky drinker and experience was limited to cheap nasty blends so it was with some reluctance that I first tasted Highland Park. We were staying in the Sands Hotel with colleagues and I couldn't believe that I had missed such pleasure as drinking Highland Park for the first 40 years of my life.

25th January 2016

I found this salty and unpleasant. This is just my personal taste as everyone else I was drinking with thoroughly enjoyed it.

16th January 2016

Creamy, one of the Best 12 yr olds

11th January 2016

Nice woody deciduous forest-floor taste, then wet wool with a touch of sea breeze. Really comes to life when viewing a Peploe still life, or one of those Tom Robertson misty landscapes. Rich velvet carpet slippers help to relax the taste buds and highlight the flavour.

11th December 2015

As other reviewers mention, for the dollar, you'd be hard pressed to beat it, thankfully they have it in the local supermarket, an added bonus for sure. Quality considering its $38 cost of entry.

28th November 2015

I'm not sure you can beat this whiskey in terms of sheer value for money - consistently surprises me every time I go back to it, which is becoming more and more often. Great depth of flavour and just the right level of sweetness to make this a great evening sip. Highly recommended

26th November 2015

Tastes quite rich, with a nice peat smoke finish, but not especially distinctive. As a lightly peated malt I'd prefer to drink Ardmore Traditional, or for a heavily peated malt I'd go for Laphroaig. Whereas if I wanted richness I'd look for Glendronach. Highland Park, while pleasant, just fails to carve out something distinctive enough.

11th November 2015

It used to be my favourite. Then I became disillusioned, along with others. The year someone gave me a bottle and I was pleasantly surprised. Not what I remember, (but then what is), But pretty bloody good. Great value for money and now is my go to quaffing malt.

1st October 2015

Used to be nectar but this bottle is bad whisky. Had read there have been bad and good batches this decade. My suspicions about this Tesco discount bottle were affirmed. Gave it 15 mins to breathe.
Suspect nose then shocking arrival of floor polish; bitter and smelly like bad hooch. If there's peat and complexity, they have been killed by an overpowering industrial taint. Lingering, bitter, nasty after-taste, let's call it an 'exceptionally long finish'. It has caused a slight head-ache.
UPDATE- after about 30 or 40 mins either it's opened up, or I've had slightly too much. Starting to think again. The 'finish' won't go away- a unique and sickly peat has emerged. You could say the same about Laphroaig- but this is subtler.
Going to add 2 more stars than I would have 30 mins ago. It's a completely different whisky from what it was a few years ago. Maybe I need to rethink what whisky can be. It's starting to intrigue me a bit now. Having to work at figuring it out. OK now it's grown on me-- add another star.

20th September 2015

I like this better than the 18. In comparison, the tannins are substantially diminished and more smoke is evident in the 12y. The 18 has more complexity but that really doesn't cut it if the taste is questionable (personal opinion/preference ofc).
HP makes nice whiskys, but I really don't see what the hype is all about.

3rd September 2015

Just got a bottle for €29,50. Pleasant, easy to drink. Like an Earl Grey. It won't offend you. A bit watery. The finish lacks depth. This is a bottle you empty with a friend within one evening. I personally seek for whiskey's which tells me a story in my mouth, with a beginning and end. This story is very short. Like we say in dutch, 13 in a dozen like this one. For the price i paid it's ok though.

21st August 2015

Out of all the Highland Park, this is by far my favourite. It's smooth, floral and has a marvelous after taste. One of the best midrange priced single malt whiskeys out there.

8th August 2015

A beautiful smooth succulent foretaste, followed by the most astonishing deep aftertaste.
its like angels dancing on your taste buds.

17th July 2015

15th June review "The Problem"
Just to let you know that the SMWS (Scotch Malt Whisky Society) allows you to sample lots of different whisk ides without buying the bottle, though you can if you wish.
Hope this helps.
12 year old Highland Park is lovely, though flavour has changed in latest out turn. Checked from my own collection.
Personally I prefer the older one, but new one still good.

13th July 2015

Hence, Ralfy rates Higland Park 12 at a 84 and rates Glenfiddich 12 @ 87. So in lay mans terms, he suggests Glenfiddich 12 is better than Higland Park 12, lol.
This dram and Glenmorangie are perfect introductions to Highland Single Malts and they're some of the best Highland Malts dependent on your budget. You can't go wrong with, either.

Here's the deal with these online reviewers: They've been tasting Scotch for years and always compare a bottle of the new stuff to the old stuff they had. Instead of comparing a bottle to other drams in the same regions. Say the reviewer likes a Highland Park 12 made a few years ago better than the newer release. Well, he might like the older release better than the newer release so he's biased. And guess what, his review is now subjective because it doesn't outlay the current malts currently being released. I see this over and over again on You Tube and ect.

30th June 2015

To anyone who classifies this as the best value for money whisky: Try the Benromach 10y ;)

26th June 2015

The problem is scotch is so expensive to try lots of different bottles. Perhaps we should invent a scotch club to share? Highland Park was wonderful. I just picked up a Mccallan 10 year, we shall see.

15th June 2015

I set out about a year ago to try every Scotch I could get my hands on. So far I'm almost up to two dozen. Despite being one of the three cheapest bottles I've tried (THE cheapest single malt) and among the youngest group... This is hands down my favorite so far! I may even give up looking any further and happily settle in right here.

14th June 2015

A drink that every one enjoy, cheers!

20th May 2015

Some of the best scotch i've had satisfies the need for both sherry and peat with some nice salty coastal flavor as well. excellent

20th May 2015

I'm normally a fan of sherried highland whiskys, and don't usually like a smokey scotch, but this is nice. The smokiness adds a nice complexity and finish and isn't too overpowering, still plenty of notes of sherried sweetness.

26th April 2015

I bought this as part of an anniversary gift for my husband. After some research, I liked the reviews and the description of this fine bottle. Perfect! He LOVES it and he's very picky. I will definitely purchase again.

16th April 2015

one of bests i have tasted complex

5th April 2015

I haven't had Highland Park 12 since last year and it was great. I bought a bottle recently and it seems lacking in character. Flat and watered down since last I tasted it. I hope I just got a bad bottle.

29th March 2015

Highland Park 12 never lets me down. It's mouth watering and delicious. Malt, sherry, whisps of smoke and heather. Must have at all times.

7th March 2015

I have been give a 12 year old bottle but has been in the cupboard for over 20 years I believe this only gets better with age is this true I tastes lovely

6th February 2015

Top 3 whisky 12 yrs and under in the world... The substance in this dram is missing now .. used to be so good but not anymore .. i hope HP come back to what it was a year back..

5th January 2015

This is a very good scotch. I have several dozen scotchs in my collection and this one is in my top 5 favorites. It has a great smokey flavor with nice complexity. It is at a good price and will def keep this in my collection.

27th December 2014

Whilst i can see that this whisky has a certain finesse about it, i'm not a fan of it's taste profile. I find it too bland, and lacking in a good sweetness and 'oomph!'. It's vibes are cold and not heartwarming. It's smokiness reminds me of cheap whisky like Teachers. Not overly impressed with this one, although i do find that adding some water DOES significantly improve the taste and add some creamy warmth to it.

19th November 2014

it is aromatic, interesting and quite complex. some of the notes were not for me although a good value dram

16th November 2014

I'm glad i paid no more than £26 for a bottle of this, cos it ain't worth much more. I b ought it based upon the many good reviews but have to say that whilst i find it a very delicate Whisky, that i also feel that the flavours are very 'muted'. Ralfy on 'u tube', scored this presentation lower than the original one, blamed it on chill filtering and added colouring, to make this current presentation more 'trendy'. I gotta say i know where he's coming from, and feel this Whisky is somehow missing that big expression of flavours. I'll report back later on, but for now it's a decent whiskey that is sweet and smoky, but also very crisp. Could do with more overall warmth.

9th November 2014

I've enjoyed the flavor of this scotch. I prefer smoky, peaty scotches and this one (as someone mentioned earlier) is a really good scotch for the price. Warm, smoky, comforting all around!

24th October 2014

A go-to brand. Inexpensive but nice. Easy to drink, quite smooth for a 12 year old.

23rd October 2014

Pretty new to single malts and haven't tried that many. Also, I'm still trying to build a career and am not enormously flush. So I tend to pitch my tent next to the £20-30/bottle range in Morrison's, and have tried the likes of Glenmorangie 10, Aberlour 10, Glenlivet 12, Ledaig (nice young whisky) All of the above are clearly superior to the cheap, blended rubbish but the HP 12 is the nicest I've tried so far. A revelation!

19th October 2014

great 'all rounder' touches of spice, citrus and a hint of smoke on the finish. A main stay of the collection

11th October 2014

Never met a whisky drinker who didn't like HP. In it's price range, you will not find a better dram balancing sweet, smoke & salt at the same time. It's a class act.

29th September 2014

Like the review "Don't Forget Old Friends" of Sept.12, 2014, I too, have come back to Highland Park 12. Highland Park was the first Scotch that I really liked (loved). But it became my quest to try the best of the best from all the regions of Scotch, trying to see if there was one that grabbed me . .. one that I would fall in love with and keep buying as my favorite dram, no matter the price. I love the Islays with their peat and smoke; love the sherried malts with their sweetness (but must have a little peat and smoke with that sweetness). There are some outstanding examples of these flavours but the very best example of all these characteristics put together is Highland Park 12. I have spent (and wasted) big bucks on single malts, while HP still remains very affordable. So I came back . . . to stay! It is truly the malt that I love above all the rest . .. even the much higher priced Islays. I too, see no need to search any further. Highland Park 12. A near perfect Scotch Whisky!

22nd September 2014

This the best value HP as the 18 and 21 years olds are now ridiculously overpriced.
It has a dry finish that comes as a surprise as the arrival is sweet Sherry. There is just the right amount of peat and smoke for my taste, but Islay peatheads will find it lacking. I hope HP can maintain quality that has been variable in the recent past. At its best it is a great dram from Orkney.

21st September 2014

For a long time a staple in my whisky cabinet, this HP is currently £25 on offer in my local supermarket and often can be found at or around this price. Given its perfect balance of heather honey sweetness and subtle wiff of something between smoke and the salty sea that comes on the finish, along with a clean smooth feel on the throat (as opposed to so many harsh , spicy whiskies that I have in my collection at 3 or 4 times the price of this), I defy anyone to suggest a better malt for the money.

21st September 2014

I was sold by the smoky flavor notes but the deal-breaker for me was the "aromatic peat". No big deal though, this is how we find our way through the wonderful land of whisky. So many of them out there, so little time.

16th September 2014

HP12 was the whiskey that opened up the world of single Malts to me some 5 years ago. When I first tried it, in a moment I realized that all of the chivas, jw black, and glenlivet that I had once considered good fell into a separate category of sub par whiskey. Immediately hooked, I have, over the years, sampled most of the tried and true classics, finding my own personal palate at home best with the peat, smoke, brine of Malts like lagavulin 16, Talisker 10, and Ardbeg oogie. After years of always trying something new, I just bought a bottle of 2014 hp12, only to realize how much I have missed this old friend. Perfectly balanced in ever way, setting itself above all others except for the lag and the Talisker, which are higher priced and hard to beat in their class. Great whiskey in every way.

Per Michael Jackson:

The Greatest all-rounder in the wold of malt whisky. Definitely in an island style, but combining all the elements of a classic single malt: smokiness, with its own heather-honey acen); maltiness; smoothness; depth, roundness and fullness of flavour; and length of finish - lovely any time.

12th September 2014

have to admit after reading the reviews I was looking forward to this one but was a bit disappointed. not all bad bad just a bit too burnie for me

11th September 2014

This is better than I expected for the price. It has a smooth and sweet, sort of butterscotchy body that at first struck me as being like a good blend, but after the first impression, a lot more detail emerged. It is particularly interesting to see how this whisky changes as it sits in your mouth: At first the sweetness from the sherry is most dominant, from which the smoke builds and sweetness fades into a sort of fruity spice, finally finishing with a lingering, dry smoke. Definitely satisfying, and not too expensive.

6th September 2014

I was used to keep a bottle of cheapy crappy whisky in the cabinet to make the better bottles last a little longer. Now it's this HP12 doing this job nicely except the price.

1st September 2014

hihihhihihii!!!!!

4th August 2014

Why do you drink scotch whisky? If it is for the taste, then you cannot find a better TASTING on the planet . . . PERIOD. I have been searching for the ultimate, illusive, perfect scotch . . . from Islay, the Highlands, the lowlands . . thinking I needed to spend big to find it . .. not so. There just is no better tasting scotch out there. It has it all; peat, smoke, sweetness. I just can't find a better scotch, so I am going to stop looking. Highland Park 12.

28th July 2014

I can't imagine a better 12 year whisky. I have had them all. I am a long established Scotch drinker that has drank a huge variety of whisky.This seems to be the most well rounded of the less expensive whiskies that I drink. I don't understand any of the negatitive reviews. I can hardly wait to open my bottle of 30 year Highland Park. But in the meantime, thank you for Highland Park 12 year!

17th July 2014

Well balanced single malt. I like the strong fruity smell and the taste of sweetness.Very good whisky! Good to keep one always if you have a collection.

20th June 2014

If your a fan of peaty whisky then this is for you, lovely intense flavour, fantastic nose.

For the price this packs
well above its weight in my
opinion! I recently tried the 18yr and that was stunning, I'll be getting a bottle for special occasions, however the 12yr is a worthy everyday replacement.

28th May 2014

I bought this Whisky many years ago after it was recommended to Me as being A Great Malt at a sensible price.I now buy this every time i want to treat myself.It has a taste which to Me is superb,smoke & peat with spicy sweetness later.I now always recommend this one to friends & workmates and they all later agree how good it is.Highland Park is One of the Best Malts.

23rd May 2014

Great! I am new to scotch but this has become my go-to after i tried many others. Warming on a cold day. Balance is just right. Perfect amount of smoke and fruit. Very smooth.

13th May 2014

I'm new to Whisky but have tried quite a few lately and have started to understand what the fuss is about. This has a nice delicate smoke to it, not as powerful as an Ardbeg 10 but this does not detract, very nice introduction to smoky malts.

5th May 2014

Basically the distillery had changed its focus from the 12 year old to the more profitable older aged malts. Last two years this has been awful, steer clear, is terrible how this whisky has declined.

28th April 2014

Just opened a bottle, great for a 12 year old, has to be favourite 12.

11th April 2014

In the last 4 years I must have drank about 10 bottles of this whiskey. This is one of my all time favorites and you will (most probably) not be disappointed either. I've been recommending this particular whiskey to all my friends since and they're all loving it.

However, the last bottle I bought somewhere in 2013 was not good at all. At first I thought it was me, but drinking a few more glasses during the week I became more and more convinced there was actually something wrong with the whiskey. After reading up on it in Jim Murray's Whiskey Bible of 2013 - giving it a shocking 70-score only - ánd tasting a bottle I gave to a friend a year earlier, it was 100% confirmed that something went wrong with the whiskey that year.

Because of this I have not bought one again since. Now a year has passed and I will try one again and hope it will be back to the quality it used to be. If it is, you simply cannot miss this one. Really.

10th April 2014

The nose hinted at oak, heather, and smokey fire. Upon entry, it had an astringent quality with a light sweetness... kind of like cough syrup. This ultimately faded into a smoke bomb though with a malty sweetness in the background. I didn't care for it as it was and a splash of water didn't help. However, and I know it may be sacrilege to some, a 50/50 mix with 18 yo Glenmorangie REALLY turned into a phenomenal dram! Honestly! It toned down the smokieness and embraced a lot of the finer heather grilled fruit notes.

28th March 2014

There's something about Highland Park 12 that I really enjoy. Smooth, smoky, classy tasting whisky for the price. Unlike the other reviewer below, I prefer this over The Macallan 12 and Glenmorangie. This is my favorite malt for the price.

25th March 2014

To know what to avoid next. I will not but more of this as for the price there is better offerings. Too much watered down makes this average whisky

22nd March 2014

Was interested to try this whiskey hearing it as the best all rounder, and I bought a miniature bottle incase it wasn't my cup of tea.

It was a very nice scotch, almost as if tasting scotch for the first time, very sweet and smokey with water added, but I was still expecting something more having heard about it's complexity.
Think i'll splash out on the 18 year old ins tread, but for what's it in. A perfect evening whiskey, but don't expect to be blown away.

13th March 2014

But watered down too much, makes no better than most average whiskys

12th March 2014

I bought a bottle yesterday, and tried it side by side with Macallan and Glenmorangie. I have to say that Highland Park is absolutely a no-no for me. I am glad that many people love it, but it is simply not my cup of tea. Glenmorangie is my top choice for a single malt whisky.

10th March 2014

very very very goooooood

3rd March 2014

the way its described is perfect but not for me but still very nice in its own way. my taste is the balvenie doublewood

2nd March 2014

This was way better than I expected. Gentle smoke and peat with some great pepper. There is underlying sweetness that comes later in the mouthful as you savor it. This is a smooth dram that I will keep in my cabinet as a regular.

20th February 2014

I'm a repeat buyer of HP 12. This whisky has definitely earned it's place among the standard rotating stock of my liquor cabinet. It is exceptionally balanced, embracing all the sweetness and fruitiness of a Speyside or Lowland malt with just the right amount of gentle peaty smokiness and island complexity needed to distinguish it from its competitors, and for the price this is quite a good deal indeed. In this case the smokiness and general character of this malt is definitely of a warming campfire/fireside variety rather than the love-it-or-leave-it iodine/medicinal peat of Islay. If you are seeking an excellent balanced scotch whisky at a modest price point, this one is very hard to beat.

14th February 2014

Rating within class and price range.

7th February 2014

Touches most every flavor profile of scotch regions in some way or another. I like it straight or with a 1/2 tsp of water in a skinny dram, but it will take more (if you like to moderate the slight alcohol bite and wood smoke) without wrecking it, actually bringing a sweet and floral character to the front; very versatile at 43%. If you've been interested in the Bunnahabhain Toiteach but shudder at the price, the Toiteach with a tiny splash is very similar to this HP12, excepting the slightly briny note of the Bunna.
HP labels are hard to see through the bottle but appears to be batch L0263R L4 22/07 10:46.

7th February 2014

This is a great entry level whisky and fairly smooth for something made in as harsh surroundings as Orkney. It has a bit of body and a low smokey, spicy finish that lasts nicely.
Great value and of course it goes without saying there are better bottles about, but many will cost you more. If you like this, it will be a nice stepping stone to some of the more characteristic island whiskies.

17th January 2014

Usually sticking to the common blends, this malt was a gift, unfortuneately my pension does not run to be able to afford this 12 but I would highly recommend it.

17th January 2014

First time trying HP 12 and was not disappointed in any way. If your reading these reviews don't bother listening to the negative comments. This scotch has a smooth taste to start and warm enjoyable aftertaste. Highly recommend.

12th January 2014

After reading the reviews, I thought I'd give this a try. Nothing worth shouting about. Average at best. Stick to Glenfarclas.

27th December 2013

I'm new to the world of scotch whisky, but having tried 9 fairly different ones from Ardbeg to Old Pulteney, Dalmore to Glenlivet, I'm trying to be as diverse as possible. This one is my favorite so far. As promised, this beautiful drink has a bit of everything: peat, sweet, fruitiness, and a lingering finish.

22nd December 2013

Nothing else to be said

20th December 2013

I have bought a lot of whisky from MoM, but this one I can get in my local liquor store (US resident). If you take your whisky thrill and divide it by your cost, I doubt you'll find many better buys. I have tasted many better whiskies, but they are invariably significantly more expensive. If this cost $200 (US), I probably give this an 8 or 9 overall, but at under $50, it's an absolute 10!

15th December 2013

I don't know much, but I know I'm glad I bought this.

24th November 2013

You know those conversations you sometimes have at the liquor store - those one offs where you and someone exchange some experiences and recommendations, and maybe you try something different? Well, the wife and I were shopping and had a pleasant one of those, and I was searching for my old favorite (Johnny Green) but was disappointed that it was out of stock - and then as she and I were discussing alternatives, an older gentleman suggested we give this bottle a try.

I was not disappointed. My first sip of this was harsh, but then, I'm the kind of nut who likes a Scotch that doesn't need ice - there are some of those out there. This isn't one of them however - and in fact, never have I tasted a Scotch before this one that changes it's stripes so completely with the simple addition of some ice. The taste of this is magnificent. It's very well rounded, and the honey and smoke are there - but the peat didn't stand up and scream - it was there, but subdued by the sweet overtones and rich flavors. The ice was everything to this, and once added, it ascended into heaven.

Definitely a pleasant bottle - and not a bad price either. Here in the US it's about $45, but well worth it.

Cheers!

23rd November 2013

After trying the HP 15, I decided to pick up a bottle of the 12. I was a bit surprised by how distinct the two were (I'm not much of a whiskey drinker....). The 12 is well described at the top of the page as sweet, honey-like with a hint of wood shavings, likely from years in a sherry cask. I think it would pair very well with dark chocolate cake or a nice cigar. I find it more subtle and shorter on the palate than the 15, which is more complex and lasting in flavour evolution. Overall, I prefer the 15 but the 12 definitely has its merits. I think I will now save the 15 for special occasions and have the 12 as a reliable standby.

16th November 2013

This is a great whisky. If I had to recomend one it would be this.Its for men not boys.

Johnny Norfolk.

15th November 2013

There is something really enjoyable about this stuff. I'll agree with some of the negative reviews that the nose, at first, is a little off (like kerosene and low tide) but this bottle really grew on me. My personal description would be campfire on the beach. Warm and nautical. I think I found my go-to single malt. I've paid double or triple the price for bottles I've thought much less of. That being said, this is only my 5th single malt that I've tried so take my opinion for what it's worth.

13th November 2013

I am no great whisky expert but this one I really like excellent value for money

7th November 2013

I'm missing something with this. Recommended by many and tried many times by me. I don't think I'd buy a bottle of this again. Its a nice enough whiskey but much better around at the same price.... Jason Breen

1st November 2013

This is one amazing whisky. For those of you who rate it low, I dare you to find something better for under $50 U.S.

13th October 2013

I have never been a whisky drinker, but have been drawn more towards it recently. After sampling a couple of flights at a local pub, just to get a taste, I then went out and bought my first bottle - A Highland Park - and am now good and truly hooked. This bottle has lit a fire in my soul, and I can't believe I've been passing up on it for so long. I will defer on the rating, because I have so little baseline for comparison, but I will say that this stuff is simply delicious.

1st October 2013

This came highly recommended and I was disappointed. Unpleasant chemical after taste, not dissimilar to inhaling petrol. I'm more of a lighter whisky fan but I gave this away to a greatful friend. Not to my taste.

21st September 2013

I used to like this whisky, but the last bottle I bought... Couldn't agree more with Jim Murray. I weep for Highland Park distillery

8th August 2013

just got my new bottle today frist time from MoM GREAT SERVICE just about to crack in to my next 2 bottles :) this dram is better than the last time and long may it last.

15th July 2013

should be in every pub in ireland for gods sake and mine

12th July 2013

I hoped the folk at HP would check the batch and maybe concur to some degree so I could purchase another bottle with confidence & find out what everyone else seems to say, but as they didn't do this and gave me hardly any feedback other than thanking me for my letter and saying maybe I was more sensitive to it than most, I wont be risking it i'm afraid when there's so many other scotch's I know I like and yet to try. BTW soda? wash your mouth out lol

5th June 2013

Not sure what the reviewer above was expecting the folk at Highland Park to do with his feedback, but assuming they haven't tearfully flushed it all away, I highly recommend it. Very tasty, rich and smooth. Just keep it away from the soda.

31st May 2013

I recently bought a bottle of this (in Mar 2013) and to say im disappointed after reading all the good reviews is an understatement. its basically fit only for giving to guests who don't know what decent whisky is to use with mixers (which is what i'll be doing with it). I checked in the whisky bible after tasting it and wasn't at all surprised to find that the author says the same thing about the 2012 release. I contacted highland park with my thoughts and after an initial pretence of being interested in my feedback didn't do much else. I wont be risking any more of my cash on HP scotch

29th May 2013

An outstanding whisky that I keep buying over and over.
Has a little bit of everything, but not too much of anything.
Perfect.

8th April 2013

Finished off the bottle in the Kinlochbervie Hotel bar. I have been hooked since. An incredibly well rounded dram that i have great pleasure introducing to my friends. Salivating as i write this.

11th March 2013

Have tasted a few hundred dollar (State side here) options, but nothing extravagant and I am a Scotch novice overall. I did much research before buying my first full bottle. This Highland Park 12 year was my choice, and I have to say, for the money I couldn't imagine doing better. Balanced sweat and smokey flavored with the freshness of greens.. along with jus the right amount of bite. Love it.

10th March 2013

Sweet (but not cloying), floral, dry, a little peaty - this one really has everything in one package.

7th February 2013

just wonderful fav at the moment and for a long time to come

21st January 2013

I was searching around for a good 12-year under $40 or so and this one came up. Really like this and the smoky finish. Tried this next to a Glenlivet 12 and I don't think I'll ever buy the Glenlivet again

11th January 2013

At first I was a little concerned by the nose; it is quite heavy with the manuka honey, with that bitter beeswax and buttery toast that I am usually not a fan of. But give it a little while to develop - it doesn't take very long and you get fresh fruity subtleties like apple peels and citrus leaf, alongside cream and baked orange with the peel on. It becomes more speyside-y with time with more powerful notes from red berries and more creamy notes. The palate, which to some is the most important bit, is incredible, INCREDIBLE, nuts, oranges, slight peat, light spice, wild botanicals like heather and juniper, there is buttery toast, creamy brown sugar and slight juiciness. The balance is splendid, just splendid. on the finish there is a lovely coating of oranges, vanilla toffee, fudge, lovely light smokiness which I have no idea how they achieved. Man this is good. Highly recommended, ESPECIALLY AT £25?!?!?!??!!?!?

9th January 2013

I had heard great reports from a work colleague on HP 12 and decided to buy for Christmas as a treat.I am new to single malt whisky and can say this HP12 is a beautiful tasting dram and I was not disappointed.Since buying this I have been fortunate over the past week to try out a few more drams including Glenfiddich 15 yo Solera, Glenlivet 12 yo and a Laphroaig Quarter cask.They were all fine tasting in my palate, but HP12 is going to be a regular purchase as for me it was smoother and more enjoyable to drink than the others.Its a whisky that tastes far more luxurious the £25 I paid for it.Great value.

2nd January 2013

Delicious

1st January 2013

I really enjoy the highland park 12yo it's perfectly balanced and you get everything you would expect. Sweet, little peaty working together with dry and sweet fruits and nut flavors and then medium dry what a lovely whisky I always go back to this lovely whisky can't get enough. So far I've tried the glenmorangie, aberlour, glenlivet, talisker and Laphroaig and they don't seem to satisfy my palate like the highland park. Great whisky keep up the good work!!!

1st January 2013

Should be called the Orkney Islands but never the orkneys!

20th December 2012

Love the orkneys, I love the peat and honey combo best I have tried

16th December 2012

This is a nice rounded single malt but seems to lack the depth and complexity of other single malts. This is very noticeable when compared to a 10 year old Glengoyne which is far more complex and just as smooth. So much more depth than the HP12...Still good value though.

9th December 2012

This is a fine whisky. To me, it tasted somewhat like a Speyside with a mild peat under it. The peat flavor is not overpowering as in Lagvulin or Laphroig and lets the other flavors shine through. Karl

19th September 2012

If you just start your malt journey, or even if you are a old runner on the malt trail, there is no way you are not gonna like this.

An amazing whiskey. way better then Glenlivet 12, Glenffidich 12, Macallan 12...etc and it's not a matter of taste, it is way better "."

23rd August 2012

My palate cannot appreciate these hugely expensive whiskies and this to me is the perfect balance between taste and cost. It tastes a hell of a lot more expensive than it actually is - a perfect compromise.

2nd August 2012

.. did mention manuka honey. Makes me wonder why they missed a statement on "it's intrinsic quality".

4th July 2012

.. did not mention peat?

4th July 2012

For my money, the Highland Park 12 is one of the best entry-level whiskies available. Mild smokiness, a touch of honey, a savoury finish - it's got a bit of everything. Great value for money.

2nd July 2012

This is one of the best entry-level whiskies, and represents among the best value for money as well. Great balance of subtle peat and honey sweetness, but lacks that little bit extra that the 18 year-old provides.

22nd June 2012

I was not too sure at first taste, or second, or third, to be honest. The main problem was the peat which is very Bunnahabhain like. But it is a grower and now I look forward to a dram. It's fragrant, then dry, then goes to sweet. Big taste, lovely.

21st June 2012

Met a guy just back from Scotland, after picking up one bottle he came back and picked up a second bottle of Highland Park in the same visit to our local store. I asked what was so special about this brand, he told me about his trip and his tasting, I've been hooked ever since, absolutely love it.

24th May 2012

Fragrant smoke with a soft kerosene, sweety lacquer and wood, moderate spirit and malt, which's leftovers prevail in modest aftertaste. Definitely better than Johnnie Walker Black, but maybe a little bit lower than Green Label. Worth trying, anyway.

3rd May 2012

Fantastic!!!

1st April 2012

And they will if my plans for world domination come to fruition!

10th March 2012

While touring Scotland in 2005 we stopped in Edinburgh before heading for London. There I had my first Scotch tasting. I tried several from Laphroig through Highland Park to Glen Morangie and Jura. I kept coming back to Highland Park. I had no previous knowledge of single malts and I just liked this one so I bought a bottle (overpriced with the VAT). Only when I got back to the States did I discover that, apparently, I know a good thing when I find it. It's still my favorite after trying a few others.

25th February 2012

my favourite malt by far and i;v tried a few, delicious,! worth 5*
James Rodger Smart esq,

2nd November 2011

Expected a lot less, affordable and by far the most delicious for the price, hell any price, everything is so balanced. Sweet then dry. Just amazing!

23rd September 2010

Another one that could easily become a staple in someone's cabinet (if not mine). This is a very refreshing dram - one that could easily be enjoyed after sweating and working in the yard. If there was ever a Scotch suitable for summer afternoon enjoyment, this is it. Sweet notes on entry and on finish - the longer you let the finish linger, the sweeter it becomes. Nougat, Caramel, almost a candy bar in a bottle after a minute or so from the last sip. Wonderful Stuff!

20th May 2010

This is the relatively new expression and redesigned bottle from HP. It was remarked in several reviews that perhaps the original 12 yo was just beginning to tire - or maybe tastes change! This new offering is certainly more subtle, slightly less smokey and just a tad sweeter. It does not lose it's Island character and remains one of the great Single Malts. Unlike the whisky however the new packaging and bottle ARE an aquired taste!

16th December 2009