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8.6

Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)

Name: Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)
Brand: Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)

Scotland Malt Score: 8.6/10

Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017) is a highly acclaimed Malt whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.6/10, it features distinctive notes of Caramel, Cinnamon, Dried. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking malt expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Highland Park 12 Year Old Viking Honour (post-2017) is a refined expression of the Orkney-based distillery's signature style, offering a blend of sweet and smoky flavors with a touch of spice. This whisky is known for its balanced combination of peat and sherry cask influence, delivering a smooth and approachable dram that showcases Highland Park's distinctive character. While the core of the whisky remains consistent, post-2017 changes in maturation and production methods have slightly altered the profile, with more emphasis on the rich, honeyed sweetness and a refined smokiness that defines this updated version of the classic Viking Honour.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose opens with a harmonious balance of sweet and smoky aromas. The peaty character is noticeable but not overpowering, with earthy, slightly medicinal notes that bring to mind damp wood and a gentle smokiness. Underneath the smoke, there’s a rich sweetness of honey, caramel, and soft vanilla, providing a smooth contrast to the peat. A subtle fruity layer emerges with hints of dried fruit—raisins and figs—as well as a light citrus zest. The oak influence is gentle, adding a touch of spice, with cinnamon and nutmeg weaving in the background. The nose is inviting and well-balanced, with both warmth and freshness.

TASTE: On the palate, Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour is medium-bodied, with a smooth, oily texture that coats the mouth. The peaty flavor is present but more refined compared to some of the heavier Islay whiskies, offering a light smokiness with earthy and medicinal qualities. The sweetness is prominent, with honey, toffee, and a light caramel flavor that provides a roundness to the taste. A subtle fruitiness follows, with dried apricots and raisins adding depth. The maltiness is smooth and slightly nutty, with a gentle oak spice that becomes more pronounced mid-palate, contributing hints of vanilla and cinnamon. There’s a light herbal character that adds a touch of complexity to the whisky.

FINISH: The finish is medium-length, with the peat lingering gently, offering a soft smokiness that slowly fades. The sweetness of honey and toffee persists, balancing the smoky character and leaving a pleasant, warming sensation. A light, drying oak influence remains, along with a hint of cinnamon and a touch of sea salt, bringing a maritime quality to the aftertaste. Overall, the finish is smooth, with a lasting impression of warmth, sweetness, and subtle smoke, making it an easy-going but flavorful dram.

Flavor Profile

Caramel Cinnamon Dried Honey Nutmeg Oak Oats Peat Salt Smoke Toffee Vanilla Zest

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)

What type of whiskey is Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)?

Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017) is a Malt whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)?

For the best tasting experience, pour Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017) into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)?

Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017) pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017)?

The flavor profile of Highland Park 12yo Viking Honour (post-2017) features Caramel, Cinnamon, Dried, Honey, Nutmeg. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.