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.
Fruity, sweet, honey, a touch coastal. Not over complex but tasty. Could benefit from a higher abv, say 46. No color added which is great. Not really into the Viking thing so much but it’s a cool bottle I guess. Good price point, will buy again in the future but not something I have to have.
I was given a bottle this past Christmas.It was a change from a Islay Malt I normally drink. I have enjoyed every drop(with cold Highland water and occasionally with a good oatcake and a wee piece of 22 month mature Cheddar.
I like it. Don't remember how much I paid for is as I recently expanded mt scotch collection. So, I can't really say it was of value. I have to tell you though, I've read the tasting notes and comments. I get neither a grilled orange or nsew tire rubber taste/smell. I smell and taste some sweetness with a hint of smoke. Sort of like I'm chewing orange rock candy in a cigar lounge.
I simply cannot get beyond the odor of this whisky. On the palette I discern the potential for a complex dram here...slightly sweet, smoky, and without the alcohol so often associated with a young whisky. The nose, however, is very similar to new automotive tire rubber...sulphur...with a hint of smoke beyond. This 'new tire smell' sticks with me and obscures any other more redeeming qualities. I will not be finishing this $50+/- bottle...what a shame.
On first taste after opening the bottle the overwhelming flavour was smokey, but after the third occasion the smokey taste had almost disappeared, disappointingly so and the flavour took on a more subtle nature with honey to the fore. Would I purchase this whiskey again? I certainly would one of the best single malts I have tried.
