Orkney (HP) 15 yo (2011), Signatory – 100 Proof Edition #83 (PX Sherry), 57.1%

Introduction

Highland Park Distillery on the Orkney Islands is one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, with a history stretching back to 1798, renowned for its unique combination of sherry maturation and gentle smoke from Orkney heather-peated malt. This special bottling from Signatory Vintage, Edition #83 in the 100 Proof series, is a rare treasure for whisky enthusiasts who appreciate depth, complexity, and authentic craftsmanship.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Traditionally malted barley, partially peated with heather peat from the Orkney Islands, imparting a characteristically soft and aromatic smoke
• Distillation process: Double distilled in copper pot stills at Highland Park Distillery, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
• Maturation: Primary maturation in ex-bourbon casks from 2011, followed by a finishing period in PX Sherry (Pedro Ximénez) casks, which contribute rich fruitiness and sweetness
• Special techniques: Bottled at natural cask strength of 57.1% without chill filtration, as part of Signatory’s highly regarded 100 Proof Edition series – a series dedicated to extraordinary single cask or limited batch expressions

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich and inviting – dark berries, raisins and figs from the PX finish unite with vanilla and coconut from the bourbon cask, underpinned by a light, sweet heather peat smoke and hints of orange peel and dark chocolate
• Palate: Powerful and complex at cask strength – juicy dried fruit (dates, prunes, raisins), brown sugar and honey are beautifully balanced by lightly smoky, earthy notes and a touch of warm spice such as cinnamon and ginger
• Finish: Long and warming – the sweet PX sherry finish lingers with dried fruit, dark chocolate and a delicate, soft smoke that slowly fades away

Serving Recommendations

• Serving temperature: Room temperature, approximately 18–20°C
• Glass recommendation: Tulip glass or Glencairn glass for optimal concentration of aromas
• Serving suggestions: Enjoy it neat to experience the full complexity – optionally add a single drop of cold spring water to open up the layered aromas and slightly soften the alcohol’s edge
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate (70%+), goat’s cheese with honey, slow-roasted beef, or classic Orcadian dishes with smoked fish and oatmeal

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 57.1% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70 cl
• Country/region of origin: Scotland – Highland Park Distillery, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Signatory Vintage’s highly acclaimed 100 Proof Edition series; Highland Park is widely recognised by leading whisky publications such as Whisky Advocate and Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible as one of the world’s finest distilleries

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Orkney (HP) 15 yo 2011 from Signatory Vintage is an extraordinary whisky that combines the best of two cask types – the elegant fruity sweetness of the PX Sherry finish and the soft, vanilla-rich fullness of the bourbon maturation – into a rare and complex whole.

As part of the limited 100 Proof Edition series, this is a bottling that will never be replicated; once the bottles are gone, they are gone – and the number is strictly limited to the yield of the casks.

Signatory Vintage is one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers, with over three decades of experience selecting and presenting whisky of the absolute highest calibre – a name that discerning enthusiasts can trust.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Both Highland Park and Signatory Vintage enjoy a deep and loyal following among the world’s most discerning whisky enthusiasts, and the 100 Proof series is particularly sought after for its consistent quality and authenticity.

When you choose a bottle from this series, you join a community of fact-driven whisky drinkers who place authenticity, transparency, and craftsmanship above all else.

Edition number #83 bears testament to the series’ long and proud history, and this PX Sherry finish expression has already generated excitement among whisky bloggers and reviewers for its outstanding balance and depth.

From Highland Park and Signatory Vintage to You

With this bottling, Signatory Vintage has chosen to present Highland Park’s character in its most unadulterated form – cask strength, unfiltered and uncompromising – as a gift to the whisky lover who values authenticity above all.

There is a sincere passion and deep respect for the spirit behind every bottle in the 100 Proof series, and it can be tasted in every single dram.

Allow yourself to be drawn into the rich whisky heritage of the Orkney Islands, and make this rare Edition #83 part of your collection or a truly memorable tasting experience – you won’t regret it.