Single Malt
Scotland
Sherry
A great introduction to Highland Park's famed heathery peat smoke, the 12 Year Old is matured predominantly in sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks, so it's spicy, citrusy, and full of smoky aromatics. This is part of the Orcadian distillery's impressive core range, which was treated to a smart new look in 2024.
Fresh, clean and very aromatic. Floral notes abound the senses with a light grassiness. Notes of creamy Manuka honey and a touch of juicy citrus with cream and a well-balanced sweetness.
Rather full with a pleasant depth. Lurking somewhere in the substratum a grilled orange lies. Notes of granary toast and green tea with jasmine. A touch of sweetness.
Quite long with peppery spice and wood shavings.
Not sure what other reviewers think they have bought. This is a single malt not a blend. But interesting that the previous reviewer thought it was a blend - which is what it tastes like.
Not sure what some of the other reviewers drink. I find it a Very Good blended scotch. Excellent balance and price/value/taste. As single malts rise to the stratosphere, it’s fast becoming my daily pre dinner drink.
Definitely in the bottom of my Scotch whiskey "To buy" list. I can drink all ranges...Peaty, Lagavulin, Laphroaig etc, Highland, Balvenie, Lowland, and so on. I love Macallan 12 sherry, lagavulin 16, and many others, however this 12 yr from Highland Park is just an "ok" whiskey. Nothing stands out. It's not bad, but I can't rant and rave about it. Probably won't buy again......I decided for this over Glenmorangie 12yr Quinta Ruban for this weekends enjoyment......I am disappointed. It tastes like a good whiskey after the ice cubes have melted and diluted it. I drink mine neat,, and it tastes watered down right out of the bottle. I agree with other reviews, should have been bottled at a higher Alc/ vol. Even at 43, it's lacking.
A little bit watery and thin, but it’s also smooth and easy with its flavours. Some smoke, peat, vanilla, soft fruit, citrus. It’s ok, and maybe the nose is more interesting than the palate. The finish is short and mouth-watering. Not bad. Three stars of five, that’s not bad. Ps. Glenfiddich 12 is also at 40% abv., but its a significant better whisky than this one. My opinion.
I've been a fan of this longer than I have been a proper scotch drinker, and it still stands up. I may have other bottles in my collection for special occasions but this is like an old friend I'm always happy to revisit, and who doesn't ask too much of me when I do. Worth every penny!
