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7.9

Highwood Ninety 5yo

Name: Highwood Ninety 5yo
Brand: Highwood Ninety 5yo

Canada Blend Score: 7.9/10

Highwood Ninety 5yo is a well-regarded Blend whiskey crafted in Canada. With an impressive rating of 7.9/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Brown Sugar. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking blend expressions from Canada.

About This Whiskey

Highwood Ninety 5yo is a Canadian whisky produced by Highwood Distillers, a family-owned distillery located in High River, Alberta. This whisky is part of the distillery's premium lineup, known for its smoothness and balance. Highwood Ninety 5yo is a bit of a rarity within Canadian whisky, as it is an aged expression that showcases the potential for maturity and complexity within the Canadian whisky industry. The name "Ninety" refers to the whisky’s 90 proof (45% ABV), which is a slightly higher than average alcohol content for a Canadian whisky. The 5-year age statement highlights that it has been matured for a minimum of five years, which is considered a relatively young age for whisky but still offers an intriguing profile, especially for those who enjoy higher-proof expressions. Highwood is one of the few independent distilleries in Canada and prides itself on producing high-quality whiskies with a focus on craftsmanship and the use of local ingredients.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: On the nose, Highwood Ninety 5yo presents a balance of sweet and spicy elements, typical of a Canadian whisky with rye and corn at play. Sweetness is upfront with caramel, butter toffee, and vanilla notes emerging immediately. These aromas are a result of the American oak casks used in maturation. Rye spice becomes noticeable after the sweetness, with hints of pepper, cinnamon, and a faint whiff of cloves. There’s also a slight oakiness, with woody aromas mingling with a subtle toasted or charred character from the barrels. The whisky may show a slight fruitiness, with hints of apple or pear and maybe even a suggestion of dried fruit like raisins or figs.

TASTE: On the palate, Highwood Ninety 5yo is rich, smooth, and balanced, with a combination of sweetness and spiciness that make it an interesting and easy-drinking whisky. The whisky opens with a wave of sweet caramel and toffee, coating the palate with a creamy, buttery mouthfeel. Rye spice emerges next, with a nice balance of black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of ginger, giving the whisky a mild, warm kick. The oak influence is noticeable, adding a light woody and slightly charred flavor, which provides depth without overpowering the whisky’s sweetness. A subtle fruitiness appears mid-palate, with apple and pear flavors that give the whisky a touch of brightness. There may also be a light nutty note, like almond or hazelnut, which adds complexity and richness to the overall flavor.

FINISH: The finish of Highwood Ninety 5yo is medium-length, with lingering sweet and spicy elements. The caramel and toffee notes from the palate persist, leaving behind a soft sweetness that is balanced by the spicy warmth of the rye. The oak influence also lingers, with a faint dryness and slight woodiness that adds a bit of structure to the finish. A slight peppery warmth remains at the back of the throat, along with traces of vanilla and brown sugar, giving a pleasant, rounded aftertaste.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Brown Sugar Caramel Cinnamon Clove Corn Dried Ginger Hazelnut Oak Pear Pepper Toast Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Highwood Ninety 5yo

What type of whiskey is Highwood Ninety 5yo?

Highwood Ninety 5yo is a Blend whiskey from Canada. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Highwood Ninety 5yo?

For the best tasting experience, pour Highwood Ninety 5yo 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 Highwood Ninety 5yo?

Highwood Ninety 5yo pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Highwood Ninety 5yo?

The flavor profile of Highwood Ninety 5yo features Almond, Apple, Brown Sugar, Caramel, Cinnamon. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that appeals to a wide range of whiskey lovers.