Highland Park 18 yo (2003/2022), Single Cask (#4391), 60%

Introduction

Highland Park 18 yo Single Cask #4391 represents the pinnacle of Orcadian whisky craftsmanship, capturing the essence of Highland Park’s distinctive character while showcasing the unique influence of an individual first-fill sherry cask.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Locally grown Scottish barley and the aromatic peat from Hobbister Moor, rich in heather and other native Orkney flora
• Distillation process: Traditional Highland Park distillation in copper pot stills, maintaining the distillery’s signature balance between peat and sweetness
• Maturation: 18 years in first-fill European oak sherry cask #4391, allowing for deep interaction between spirit and wood
• Special techniques: Hand-turned floor maltings process and floor-dried malted barley, contributing to Highland Park’s complex character and signature gentle smokiness

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich dried fruits, dark chocolate, spiced orange peel, aromatic heather honey, and subtle wisps of Orkney peat smoke
• Palate: Intense waves of dried figs and raisins, warm winter spices, toasted oak, caramelized nuts, with hints of heather honey and balanced smoky notes
• Finish: Long, warming and complex with persistent sweet spices, dried fruit, gentle oak tannins, and a lingering subtle smokiness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat; considering the high ABV, a few drops of filtered water may open up additional flavor dimensions
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content, aged cheese like Comté or Manchego, or smoke-cured meats

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 60% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Orkney Islands
• Certifications/Awards: Highland Park distillery has received numerous awards for its 18-year expressions, consistently recognized among the world’s top single malts

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Highland Park 18-year-old single cask represents a truly exceptional expression that even the most seasoned whisky enthusiasts rarely encounter.

As a limited bottling from a single cask, once these bottles are gone, this exact flavor profile will never be replicated again.

Crafted by Highland Park’s master distillers, whose expertise has been recognized throughout the whisky world, this expression showcases their unparalleled skill in balancing complex flavors.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky connoisseurs and collectors worldwide actively seek single cask expressions from Highland Park, recognizing their exceptional quality and investment potential.

Many enthusiasts who commit to collecting Highland Park’s special releases find that these bottles become centerpieces in their collections, offering both prestige and pleasure.

The consistent excellence of Highland Park’s limited releases has established them as benchmarks against which other premium aged single malts are measured.

From Orkney Islands to You

Highland Park has shared one of their most precious casks, allowing you to experience a taste that would otherwise only be available to those who visit the remote Orkney distillery.

The warmth and character of this whisky reflect the proud heritage and genuine craftsmanship of the Highland Park team, creating an immediate connection to their island traditions.

By enjoying this exceptional single cask expression, you join a select community of discerning whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the pinnacle of Scottish whisky craftsmanship – secure your bottle while this rare offering remains available.