Highland Park, the distillery hailing from Orkney, has expanded its exclusive Single Cask Series with the launch of the Highland Park London Edition, a remarkable 18-year-old single malt whisky. This exceptional whisky, distilled in 2002 and carefully drawn from a specially chosen cask in 2021, is the latest addition to Highland Park's portfolio, crafted under the expertise of master whisky maker Gordon Motion.
Within the Single Cask Series, Motion is unwavering in his pursuit of the extraordinary—a whisky with a unique aroma, an exceptional character, or a superb representation of Highland Park's complex balance of flavors. He explains, "When it comes to whisky that's matured for 18 years and more, I have fewer casks to choose from, so those in our Single Cask Series are, quite simply, the most exceptional Highland Park casks available."
The cask selected for the London Edition stood out for its remarkable marriage of diverse yet harmonious flavors. This whisky presents notes of pear, vanilla, nutmeg, and peat, creating a palate that is a testament to Highland Park's distinct character. The chosen barrel, a refill Sherry-seasoned European oak cask, has naturally imbued the whisky with a light and elegant golden hue.
Highland Park London Edition boasts a rich and rounded aroma, featuring elements of vanilla sponge, fresh Galia melon, oak, nutmeg, and subtle peat tones. On the palate, flavors of pears, aniseed, and rich cedar wood take center stage, complemented by gentle peaty notes in the mid-palate. The finish is a lingering symphony of sweet spice and woody character.
This expression is bottled at a cask strength of 58.5% ABV, a deliberate choice by Motion to encourage whisky enthusiasts to explore their preferred drinking strength and flavor by experimenting with water or ice.
With only 642 bottles available in this limited run, Highland Park London Edition will be offered in the UK starting from September 11th, with a recommended retail price (RRP) of £390 (US$493). This release is set to captivate whisky connoisseurs with its distinctive character and exquisite craftsmanship.
About The Single Cask Series
The Highland Park Single Cask Series is a prestigious collection of limited-edition single malt whiskies produced by the Highland Park distillery, known for its unique and exceptional Scotch whiskies. This series represents a tribute to the distillery's commitment to crafting outstanding, distinctive, and rare expressions for whisky enthusiasts and collectors.
Each release in the Highland Park Single Cask Series is a single malt whisky that has been carefully selected from a specific cask or barrel. These casks are chosen for their exceptional quality, unique characteristics, and remarkable flavor profiles. The series offers a glimpse into the diversity and complexity of Highland Park's whisky portfolio, showcasing the various influences that contribute to the rich and nuanced flavors found in their spirits.
The selection process for the Single Cask Series is meticulous, led by Highland Park's master whisky maker, who searches for the most exceptional casks in the distillery's aging warehouses. These casks often represent a range of ages and wood types, including sherry-seasoned oak and other specialty casks, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
One of the key features of the Single Cask Series is the presentation of the whisky at cask strength, meaning it is not diluted with water before bottling. This preserves the whisky in its most natural and undiluted form, allowing enthusiasts to experience the full intensity of flavors and aromas. It also encourages whisky connoisseurs to experiment with water or ice to reach their preferred drinking strength and flavor profile.
Due to the limited availability of each release, the Single Cask Series is highly sought after by collectors and whisky aficionados. Each bottling is typically offered in limited quantities, and the bottles often feature unique designs and packaging, adding to their collectible appeal.
Overall, the Highland Park Single Cask Series is a testament to the distillery's dedication to craftsmanship and innovation in the world of Scotch whisky. It provides a platform for whisky enthusiasts to explore the depth and diversity of Highland Park's offerings while enjoying some of the finest and most exclusive expressions crafted by this renowned distillery.
About Highland Park Distillery
The Highland Park Distillery, situated on the picturesque Orkney Islands off the northern coast of Scotland, is an iconic and highly respected name in the world of Scotch whisky. Established in 1798, it is one of Scotland's oldest whisky distilleries, with a rich history spanning over two centuries. The distillery's unique location on the windswept Orkney Islands contributes significantly to the character of its whiskies, infusing them with a distinct maritime influence.
One of the defining features of Highland Park whisky is its commitment to using traditional methods and techniques. This includes the use of traditional malting floors for part of their barley requirements and the employment of classic copper pot stills, which play a vital role in shaping the whisky's rich and complex flavor profile. The distillery's dedication to these time-honored practices has earned it a reputation for producing exceptional single malt Scotch whisky.
Highland Park's core range of whiskies showcases a harmonious balance of flavors, often characterized by a delightful combination of sweet, fruity, and smoky notes. This unique profile has garnered a dedicated following among whisky enthusiasts worldwide and has earned numerous awards and accolades over the years.
The distillery is also renowned for its use of sherry-seasoned oak casks for maturation, which imparts a distinctive richness and depth to its whisky. These casks, along with the influence of the Orkney's bracing sea air, contribute to the complexity and character that sets Highland Park whisky apart.
Highland Park's commitment to sustainability and responsible production is noteworthy. The distillery actively participates in initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and support conservation efforts on the Orkney Islands. This dedication to ethical and sustainable practices underscores the distillery's role as a responsible guardian of its natural surroundings.
Visitors to the Highland Park Distillery can embark on guided tours and tastings, immersing themselves in the distillery's history, craftsmanship, and the breathtaking beauty of the Orkney Islands. Whether enjoyed in a tasting room or on the other side of the world, Highland Park whisky stands as a testament to tradition, quality, and the enduring allure of Scotch whisky crafted in one of Scotland's most remote and captivating locations.
