Highland Park, Dragon Legend, 43.1%

Introduction

Highland Park Dragon Legend is a bold expression from Scotland’s northernmost distillery, drawing inspiration from the rich Viking heritage of Orkney and the mythical dragons that feature prominently in Nordic folklore.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish barley and the aromatic peat from Hobbister Moor, which is rich in heather and contains virtually no trees
• Distillation process: Traditional distillation in Highland Park’s copper pot stills with upward-tilted lyne arms that allow for greater copper contact
• Maturation: Aged in a combination of traditional oak casks, with emphasis on sherry-seasoned European and American oak
• Special techniques: Created with a higher proportion of peated malt than the Highland Park 12 Year Old, giving it a more intense smoky character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Aromatic peat smoke, vanilla custard, citrus peel, and hints of cinnamon with a subtle background of heather honey
• Palate: Full-bodied with smoky sweetness, winter spices, crystallized ginger, toasted oak, and caramelized orchard fruits
• Finish: Long, warming finish with lingering sweet peat, dried fruits, and complex oak spices

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (15-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to release additional aromatic complexity
• Food pairings: Smoked salmon, dark chocolate, blue cheese, or grilled game meats

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 43.1% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Orkney Islands, Scotland
• Certifications/Awards: Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Highland Park Dragon Legend offers an intensified flavor profile that perfectly balances Orkney’s distinctive aromatic peat with sweet heather honey notes rarely found in other whiskies.

As a special release that captures the essence of Nordic legends, Dragon Legend is not produced in the same quantities as Highland Park’s core range, making it a prized addition to any collection.

Created by Highland Park’s Master Whisky Maker Gordon Motion, this expression demonstrates the distillery’s 220+ years of whisky-making expertise and their unique position as the northernmost Scottish distillery.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts worldwide have embraced Dragon Legend for its bold character and authentic connection to Orkney’s Viking heritage.

Those who appreciate Highland Park’s signature style frequently select Dragon Legend when seeking a more pronounced smoky character while maintaining the distillery’s balanced approach.

Its gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition confirms what Highland Park fans already know: this is a whisky that stands proudly among the world’s finest single malts.

From Orkney to You

Each bottle of Dragon Legend represents Highland Park’s gift to the whisky world—a labor of love from the passionate craftspeople who maintain centuries-old traditions on their remote island home.

The engaging story behind this whisky, with its connections to Norse mythology and Orcadian heritage, creates an immediate connection with anyone who appreciates authentic cultural expressions.

By choosing Dragon Legend, you join a community of Highland Park enthusiasts who value both exceptional whisky and the rich tapestry of stories that bind us to the ancient Nordic world—discover why this expression has earned its legendary status.