Highland Park 12 yo (2007/2020), Single Cask Thyra Danebod (#4939), 62.8%

Introduction

Highland Park 12yo “Thyra Danebod” is a distinguished single cask expression from Scotland’s northernmost distillery, celebrating the rich Nordic heritage that defines this iconic Orkney Islands producer.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish barley and the distinctive Orkney peat, known for its heathery, floral character compared to the medicinal peat used elsewhere
• Distillation process: Traditional copper pot stills with upward-tilted lyne arms that create Highland Park’s signature medium-bodied spirit
• Maturation: Aged for 12 years in a hand-selected refill puncheon cask (#4939), allowing both the distillery character and wood influence to develop in harmony
• Special techniques: No chill filtration and bottled at cask strength (62.8%) to preserve the whisky’s full range of flavors and natural oils

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense heather honey, aromatic peat smoke, zesty orange peel, and vanilla custard with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon
• Palate: Rich and powerful with waves of honey-glazed orchard fruits, dark chocolate, ginger spice, and the signature Highland Park heathery smokiness
• Finish: Exceptionally long with lingering peat smoke, dried fruits, and warming oak spices that slowly fade, leaving a gentle sweetness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat; given the high strength, a few drops of spring water can open up additional flavor complexities
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with sea salt, smoked salmon, aged cheeses, or traditional Nordic desserts

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 62.8% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Orkney Islands
• Certifications/Awards: Highland Park is consistently rated among the world’s top single malt whiskies by experts and critics

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Highland Park “Thyra Danebod” represents an extraordinary expression of Orkney terroir, where the northernmost Scottish distillery meets exceptional cask selection.

With only one cask (#4939) ever bottled under this name, this expression offers a flavor profile that cannot be replicated and will never be available again.

Created by Highland Park’s master whisky makers, whose expertise spans generations and is recognized globally for balancing heathery peat with honeyed sweetness.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Single cask Highland Park expressions are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide, often selling out immediately upon release.

Dedicated Highland Park enthusiasts consistently seek out these rare single cask bottlings, recognizing their exceptional quality and investment potential.

The “Thyra Danebod” cask continues Highland Park’s tradition of excellence that has earned the distillery numerous gold medals and awards at international spirits competitions.

From Orkney to You

Highland Park has devoted over 220 years to perfecting their craft, resulting in this extraordinary bottle that captures the essence of their island home.

The name “Thyra Danebod” celebrates the Nordic heritage that resonates throughout Highland Park’s history, connecting whisky lovers to the Viking legacy that shaped Orkney’s culture.

By enjoying this exceptional dram, you join a community of discerning Highland Park admirers who understand and appreciate the unique character that only this remote island distillery can produce.