First Impressions
Highland Park is Scotland's most northerly Scotch distillery, situated on the Orkney Islands where the Norse and Scottish traditions meet. The 12 Year Old — rebranded as Viking Honour — is celebrated for its remarkable balance, acting as a bridge between Scotch styles: simultaneously floral, sweet, and gently smoky. Matured in sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks.
Tasting
The nose is fragrant and floral with heather, spice, apricot, and marmalade. On the palate at 40%, smooth and honeyed with citrus, malt, and gentle wood smoke. The finish is medium with spicy oak, ginger, and honey.
The Verdict
Highland Park 12 earns an 8 — the most balanced entry-level single malt available. It bridges peated and unpeated, sherried and bourbon-casked, floral and smoky. At £35, the Orkney masterclass in balance.
