Orkney (HP) 17 yo (2005/2023), Signatory Vintage – Cask Strength (1st Fill Sherry Butt #27), 55.3%

Introduction

This exceptional Highland Park whisky, discreetly labeled as “Orkney” by independent bottler Signatory Vintage, captures the essence of Scotland’s northernmost distillery through the lens of premium sherry cask maturation and single cask exclusivity.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Malted barley from the Scottish mainland, with Highland Park’s signature light peat influence, combined with the pristine water sources from the Cattie Maggie spring on Orkney.
• Distillation process: Carefully distilled in Highland Park’s traditional copper pot stills, preserving the distillery’s distinctive heather honey and subtle smoke character.
• Maturation: Aged for 17 years (2005-2023) in a first-fill Oloroso Sherry Butt (cask #27), allowing for rich interaction between spirit and wood in Orkney’s unique maritime climate.
• Special techniques: Bottled by Signatory Vintage at natural cask strength (55.3%) without chill filtration, preserving all natural oils and flavor compounds for maximum authenticity and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich dried fruits with sultanas and figs, intertwined with Highland Park’s signature heather honey, aromatic peat smoke, and warm Christmas spices including cinnamon and nutmeg. Dark chocolate and orange zest emerge with time.
• Palate: Full-bodied and complex with intense sherry-derived notes of raisins, dates, and walnut cake. The robust cask strength delivery brings waves of spiced honey, dark chocolate, dried orange peel, and subtle maritime salt, balanced by Highland Park’s gentle smoke.
• Finish: Long and warming with persistent dried fruits, oak spice, and gentle peat embers. The sherry influence lingers with notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and a hint of espresso that slowly fades, leaving a pleasant dryness.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the complex aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat initially to appreciate the full cask strength impact, with a few drops of spring water added subsequently to unlock additional layers of flavor
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content, dried fruit and nut desserts, aged cheeses like Manchego or Gouda, or simply savor alone as a contemplative after-dinner dram

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 55.3% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Orkney Islands
• Certifications/Awards: Single cask expression from Signatory Vintage, one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers known for their exceptional cask selection

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Highland Park 17-year-old represents a remarkable intersection of distinctive island character and first-fill sherry cask excellence, creating a flavor profile unattainable in standard releases.

As a single cask bottling from a now depleted barrel, each bottle represents an unrepeatable moment in whisky history that cannot be recreated once the limited allocation is exhausted.

Signatory Vintage has established themselves as masters of cask selection, with their Highland Park bottlings particularly sought after by connoisseurs seeking authentic expressions of this iconic distillery’s character.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Sherried Highland Park expressions from independent bottlers have developed a devoted following among whisky enthusiasts who consistently seek out these releases for their exceptional quality and depth.

Collectors and enthusiasts who have discovered single cask Highland Park expressions often commit to exploring further releases, recognizing the exceptional value these bottlings represent compared to official distillery offerings of similar age.

The growing appreciation for independently bottled Highland Park has seen previous Signatory Vintage releases rapidly appreciate in value and esteem within the whisky community.

From Orkney to You

Highland Park has generously shared this exceptional cask with Signatory Vintage, allowing whisky lovers the rare opportunity to experience their spirit in its purest, most unadulterated form.

The affable character of this dram, with its perfect balance of sherry richness, subtle smoke, and honeyed sweetness, creates an instantly likable experience that satisfies both newcomers and seasoned Highland Park enthusiasts.

In choosing this bottle, you join a discerning community of whisky adventurers who value authenticity and craftsmanship above marketing – discover why single cask Highland Park expressions have become legendary among those who truly understand Orkney whisky.