Highlands Park 'Whisky.de exclusive 18 Years 2002/2021 | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Distilled at Highland Park Distillery, located in the Orkney Islands, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled in 2002 and bottled in 2021, making it an 18-year-old whisky. Matured in refill sherry casks, contributing to its rich color and flavor profile.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Bottle Design: Described as having a wonderful brown, reddish color, visible through the bottle. The bottle features a unique cork screw with a bayonet, ensuring it is opened correctly. The design is noted as being magnificent and massive.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of smoky and sweet flavors, with a rich ruby tone driven by the refill sherry cask maturation.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its intense sherry notes, combined with a massive character. Flavors evolve from a big nose full of oranges, tobacco, and leather, to a palate rich in dried fruitiness, nuttiness, and a hint of orange zest. Upon opening up, it reveals vanilla, coconut, and a sweeter, fruitier profile.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique flavor profile, especially the combination of sherry influence and the distillery's characteristic smokiness, sets it apart.

Distillery History: Highland Park Distillery, established in 1798, has a rich history involving its founder, Magnus Eunson, who was known for his smuggling activities. The distillery's legal production began 30 years after its founding, amidst the ban of the Highlands.
Personal Anecdote: Horst Luening shares his visit to the distillery in 2005, adding a personal connection to the whisky being reviewed.

Orkney Islands: The distillery's location in the Orkney Islands, with its unique climate and geography, contributes to the distinct character of Highland Park whiskies.
Historical Context: The story of Magnus Eunson and the distillery's early days highlight the cultural heritage of whisky production in Scotland, particularly in the context of the Highlands.

"Nearly a perfect whiskey for me." - Ben Luening, rating it 5.4.8 out of 5.
"It feels more like a 25-year-old or even older whiskey." - Comment on the whisky's mature character despite its 18-year age statement.

Highland Park 'Whisky.de exclusive 18 Years 2002/2021 is an 18-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in refill sherry casks.
It boasts a complex balance of smoky and sweet flavors, with a rich, evolving flavor profile.
The whisky has a deep connection to the Orkney Islands and the historical context of its distillery.
Expert opinions praise its near-perfect quality and mature character.
The review includes personal anecdotes and historical trivia, adding depth to the whisky's story.

For Whisky Connoisseurs: The complex flavor profile and unique characteristics make it a must-try.
For History and Culture Enthusiasts: The rich historical context and storytelling aspects will appeal to those interested in whisky heritage.
For Collectors: The limited availability (524 bottles) and exclusive nature make it a valuable addition to any collection.