As a passionate whiskey enthusiast, I'm always eager to delve into the diverse offerings from renowned distilleries, and Highland Park is no exception. Known for its rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship, this Orcadian gem’s 12 Year Viking Honour expression has recently captivated me. After posting a review a few weeks ago, a friend reached out and offered to send me a few samples of other expressions from the distillery. After receiving three samples, I decided to explore the four distinct expressions simultaneously, hoping to find each to have its own unique personality. Below, I compare and contrast the four expressions.
Let's start with the Highland Park 12
This classic dram greets the senses with a delightful bouquet of honey, ripe pear, and zesty orange, complemented by comforting notes of freshly baked bread and a subtle hint of peaty smoke. On the palate, the sweetness of honey and lemon is beautifully balanced by baking spices, while the peat remains pleasantly restrained, allowing the other flavors to shine. The finish is medium-length, leaving a lingering impression of warm, yeasty bread and a gentle embrace of oak-driven black pepper.
Moving on to the Magnus 80 Proof
This expression shares some similarities with the Highland Park 12, but with a slightly more subdued nose. The palate showcases a shift towards more prominent citrus notes, with a hint of briny character adding an intriguing twist. Though not as complex as its older sibling, the Magnus offers a lighter, more accessible experience that could serve as an excellent introduction to the Highland Park style.
These represent some higher-proof offerings from the distillery. CS #3 immediately captivates with its caramel-forward nose, which introduces a new dimension to the Highland Park profile. The palate is rich in honey and orange, complemented by a distinct maltiness that reflects the increased alcohol content. The finish maintains the familiar warmth and complexity, hinting at the expertise behind these cask-strength releases.
However, it is the CS #4 that truly stands out as the star of this tasting
Its nose is even more smoky than the CS #3, with the caramel notes adding a delightful layer of depth. On the palate, a lovely contrast emerges between the sweet honeysuckle and the caramel-infused bread notes. Surprisingly, the smoke is less pronounced here, allowing for a more balanced and harmonious experience. But it's the finish that truly seals the deal – the black pepper heat adds a thrilling element without becoming overpowering, creating a perfect crescendo of flavors.
In this exploration of Highland Park's versatility, each expression has its own unique appeal. The Highland Park 12 remains a timeless classic, the Magnus 80 Proof offers a gentler entry point, and the Cask-Strength Batches #3 and #4 showcase the distillery's ability to craft complex, high-proof whiskies. It is the CS #4, with its captivating nose, well-integrated flavors, and thrilling finish, that emerges as my personal favorite, cementing Highland Park's reputation as a true master of its craft. This tasting journey has been a delightful reminder of the depth and artistry that this renowned distillery has to offer.
Cheers!🥃
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