Highland Park Valkyrie Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Highland Park, known for its Orkney heritage.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Details on distillation are not specified, but the whisky seems to have a significant amount of Sherry Cask influence, similar to its predecessor, the Dark Origins series. The bottle design incorporates Viking-inspired artwork by Danish artist Jim Lundville, reflecting the Nordic theme of Valkyries.
Age Statement: No age statement is provided.
Color & Bottle Design: Described as having a natural amber hue, likened to a pale sunset on an Orkney winter's day. The bottle is notably dark, described as the "black of death," which may symbolize its connection to the Valkyrie theme.

Opening: Sharp tang of sweet green apples and ripening lemons, followed by oriental spices.
Body: Creamy vanilla, preserved ginger, and dark chocolate, with hints of salty black licorice and smoldering bonfire.
Finish: Long and lingering with warm aromatic smoke and richly ripened fruit. The spiciness of ginger is prominent in the aftertaste.
Balance: Exquisitely balanced, showcasing a complex interplay of sweetness, spice, and smokiness.

The Valkyrie theme is deeply rooted in Norse mythology, representing angels on the battlefield who choose the bravest warriors to join Odin's table in Valhalla. This narrative is vividly captured in the bottle's design and the whisky's fiery depth.

Highland Park Valkyrie celebrates Orkney's Viking heritage, with the bottle's artwork and the whisky's name drawing from Norse mythology. The storytelling and design elements pay homage to the region's historical and cultural significance.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "wonderfully complex," praising its balance and depth of flavor. He notes its potential youth due to the lack of an age statement but finds it complex and engaging nonetheless.
The whisky is seen as a worthy successor to the Dark Origins series, with a slightly lower ABV making it more approachable.

Highland Park Valkyrie is a single malt Scotch whisky with a significant Sherry Cask influence, featuring a complex flavor profile of sweet fruits, oriental spices, creamy vanilla, and smoky notes.
The whisky draws heavily on Norse mythology for its theme, reflected in both the storytelling and bottle design.
It is praised for its exquisite balance and complexity, offering a rich and engaging tasting experience.

For the Mythology Enthusiast: The rich Norse mythology theme will appeal to those fascinated by Viking history and stories.
For the Flavor Explorer: Individuals seeking a complex, balanced whisky with a variety of flavor notes, from sweet and spicy to smoky, will find Valkyrie intriguing.
For the Collector: The unique bottle design and limited availability make it a desirable addition to any whisky collection.