HIGHLAND PARK 12 YEARS OLD 40% VIKING HONOUR

Highland Park 12 Years Old - Viking Honour represents a core expression from the renowned Highland Park Distillery, situated in the remote archipelago of Orkney, Scotland. This single malt Scotch whisky is characterized by its balance of sweet and aromatic profiles with a distinctive peaty undertone.

**Highland Park** itself is one of Scotland's most northerly distilleries, lying just beyond the Scottish mainland. It garners respect for its unique geographic location which significantly influences the maturation process of its whiskies. The distillery utilizes hard water filtered through local sandstone and peat cut from Hobbister Moor, only seven miles from the distillery. This peat is dense with aromatic heather which imparts a markedly different flavor to the whisky compared to the peat used in Islay Scotch, known for its more maritime, iodine-rich characteristics.

The distillery’s focus on traditional practices extends to its use of the 'Orkney Single Malt' designation, a testimony to its adherence to region-specific craftsmanship. This includes the utilization of floor-malted barley, which is uncommon in contemporary production methods, and aging the spirit in oak casks that contribute deeply to its flavor profile.

The **12 Years Old Viking Honour** is an homage to the deep heritage of the Orkney Islands, once inhabited and ruled by the Vikings. The name and presentation of the whisky reflect the Norse ancestry of the island, blending the rich history with the distillery's craft. The packaging features Viking art and symbology, emphasizing the fierce independence and stoic nature of the Orcadian spirit.

This expression, bottled at **40% ABV** in 70cl bottles, perfectly encapsulates Highland Park’s ethos of balance between smoke, sweet malt, and complexity. Over its 12 years of maturation, the whisky develops a golden hue and a body rich with the flavors of honey, fruitcake, winter spices, and aromatic peat smoke. The finish is lingering and warm, with a mild spiciness that echoes in the palate.

**Tasting Notes:** Upon first nose, one can discern notes of aromatic peat intermingled with profound sweetness. Hints of honey, ripe cherries, and a touch of fresh lemon zest evolve, leading to a palate where the sweetness of dried fruits and subtle warm spice dominate. All this is beautifully ensconced in a smoky, peaty framework that speaks to the traditional methods of its production. The finish is robust yet nuanced, with a lasting taste of smoked oak and spices.

The bottler, in this case, is official, meaning Highland Park has full control over the production and presentation of the Viking Honour. This guarantees a level of quality and consistency in each bottle, reflecting the brand's commitment to excellence.

**Conclusion:** The Highland Park 12 Years Old Viking Honour is an exemplary Scotch whisky that leverages traditional craftsmanship and rich regional heritage to deliver a distinguished and satisfying drink. Ideal for those who appreciate a smoky, yet balanced whisky, it serves as a perfect introduction to the brand’s extensive and celebrated portfolio. This dram not just sips a story of Viking legacy, but also paints a picture of Orkney's natural beauty and the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic distilleries in the world.