HIGHLAND PARK 2006 12 YEARS OLD 64,7% SINGLE CASK #5100 | VELIER

The Highland Park 2006 12 Years Old Single Cask #5100, bottled by Velier, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship and tradition of one of Scotland’s most reputable distilleries. Nestled in Orkney, a set of islands at the threshold between the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Highland Park is renowned for its distinctive whisky, which harmoniously blends peat smoke with the salinity of the sea—a hallmark of its island heritage.

This particular expression was distilled in 2006 and aged for 12 years, a period during which it developed its unique character. The single cask maturation in a first fill European oak sherry cask is evident in the rich, deep hues and the complex flavor profile characteristic of this exceptional release. The cask type is crucial here, as first fill European oak casks imbue the whisky with robust and opulent notes of dried fruits, spices, and a pronounced sherried sweetness that integrates seamlessly with the natural aromatic peat and heather-honey undertones that Highland Park is celebrated for.

Bottled at an impressively high strength of 64.7%, this cask strength whisky delivers an intense, full-bodied experience. The high proof not only preserves the profound flavors encapsulated during the maturation but also allows enthusiasts the flexibility to dilute the whisky to their preferred strength, potentially unveiling new layers of complexity. Only 324 bottles of this rare whisky were produced, highlighting its exclusivity and the unique character of cask #5100.

This release was officially bottled by the distillery, ensuring that it represents the quality and spirit intended by Highland Park. Known for its commitment to authenticity and artisanal quality, Highland Park’s approach to whisky production is meticulous, involving the use of hand-turned malt and local aromatic peat.

The bottler, Velier, is known for its deep expertise and commitment to highlighting the unique characters of the spirits it selects. Formed in Genoa in 1947, Velier is famed for bottling some of the world’s most prestigious rums and whiskies, often selecting single casks that showcase particularly distinctive profiles. This collaboration between Highland Park and Velier represents a meeting of legends, making this single cask whisky a sought-after bottle for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

The high proof, coupled with its rarity and the reputation of both Highland Park and Velier, makes this bottling highly desirable. It is not just a bottle of whisky, but a piece of art crafted from the unique climate of Orkney, the ancient tradition of the distillery, and the profound expertise of one of the most esteemed bottlers in the whisky world. Collectors and whisky lovers will no doubt recognize the value and distinctive quality of the Highland Park 2006 12 Years Old Single Cask #5100 as a standout addition to any collection.