Secret Orkney (HP) 14 yo (2010), Signatory – 100 Proof (Oloroso/Bourbon), 57.1%

Introduction

Secret Orkney, widely recognized as Highland Park, is a distinguished single malt from the northernmost whisky distillery in Scotland, where Viking heritage and island character converge to create a whisky of remarkable depth and complexity.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Locally sourced Scottish barley and the distinctive peated malt that gives Highland Park its gentle smoky character, combined with the pure spring water from the Cattie Maggie’s spring near the distillery
• Distillation process: Traditional Scottish pot still distillation in copper stills that have helped shape the distillery’s distinctive profile for generations
• Maturation: Dual cask maturation in 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry casks imparting rich fruitiness and a Bourbon cask influence adding vanilla sweetness, aged for 14 years in Orkney’s unique maritime climate
• Special techniques: Floor malting of a portion of the barley using the traditional Orkney peat, rich in heather and ancient woodland elements, creating a distinctive aromatic smoke profile

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich honey sweetness intertwined with gentle heathery peat smoke, dried orange peel, Christmas cake spices, and subtle sea salt notes typical of Orkney whiskies
• Palate: Full-bodied and robust with layers of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and toffee from the Oloroso influence, balanced by vanilla custard and citrus notes from the Bourbon cask, underpinned by a delicate smoky backbone
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering sweet spices, gentle smoke, and a touch of salted caramel that gradually fades, leaving a pleasant oak dryness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) to fully appreciate its complex character
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the complex flavors and aromas at this high strength
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with sea salt, smoked salmon, aged cheese such as Manchego, or sticky toffee pudding

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 57.1% ABV (100 Proof UK)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Orkney Islands
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Signatory’s highly regarded 100 Proof collection, known for exceptional cask selection and quality

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Secret Orkney 14-year-old represents a rarely-available independent bottling from one of Scotland’s most northerly and distinctive distilleries, offering a flavor profile impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Signatory has selected these exceptional casks from limited distillery stocks, making this expression increasingly scarce as independent bottlings of Highland Park become more difficult to obtain.

The high strength bottling at 57.1% ABV adheres to the traditional “100 Proof” standard – a mark of authentic quality recognized by whisky authorities and connoisseurs worldwide.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Signatory Vintage has built their reputation among whisky enthusiasts by selecting only the finest casks, earning them a devoted following of collectors who eagerly anticipate each new release in the 100 Proof series.

By choosing this bottling, you join a discerning community of whisky aficionados who commit to experiencing the authentic expression of distillery character that only skilled independent bottlers can provide.

The unique combination of Oloroso and Bourbon cask maturation has been specifically selected to showcase the perfect balance between sherry richness and bourbon elegance that Highland Park is renowned for.

From Orkney Islands to You

Each bottle represents a direct connection to the ancestral whisky-making traditions of Orkney, where the Viking heritage and island elements have shaped a distinctive spirit for generations.

The approachable yet complex nature of this dram creates an immediate appreciation among both newcomers and experienced whisky lovers, offering a genuine taste of Orkney’s rugged coastal landscape.

By sharing this bottle, you become part of the continuing story of Orkney whisky-making, joining a community of enthusiasts who value tradition, craftsmanship, and the unique experience that only a carefully selected single malt can deliver.