Highland Park Viking Honour Twelve Year Old

Highland Park Viking Honour 12 Year Old: A Single Malt Scotch Whisky Fit for Valhalla

The Highland Park Viking Honour 12 Year Old is a single malt Scotch whisky that embodies the spirit of its Orcadian origins. Matured in a combination of European and American sherry-seasoned oak casks for twelve years, this whisky offers a complex and well-rounded flavour profile, perfect for seasoned Scotch drinkers and curious newcomers alike.

Aromatic Journey: Heather, Honey, and Smoke

On the nose, the Viking Honour presents a delightful interplay of aromas. Sweet heather honey takes centre stage, mingling with hints of sun-ripened Seville oranges. Underlying this sweetness is a touch of spice, reminiscent of cinnamon and nutmeg, that adds a touch of intrigue. The signature Highland Park smoke peeks through subtly, more like a campfire's embers than a burning inferno. The overall impression is one of inviting warmth and complexity.

Tasting the Orcadian Spirit

The first sip of the Viking Honour reveals a smooth and balanced mouthfeel. The initial sweetness of honey carries through, complemented by a burst of citrusy orange zest. Hints of vanilla and rich fruit cake, infused with warming spices, emerge on the mid-palate. The gentle smoke presence, characteristic of Highland Park, weaves its way throughout the tasting experience, adding a touch of depth without overwhelming the other flavours.

A Lingering Finish

The finish of the Viking Honour is pleasantly long and warming. The spicy oak from the sherry casks comes to the fore, mingling with lingering hints of ginger and honey. A touch of soft fruit adds a final flourish, leaving a satisfying and memorable impression.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Experience

To fully appreciate the intricacies of the Highland Park Viking Honour 12 Year Old, consider serving it neat in a tulip-shaped glass. This glass allows the whisky's aromas to concentrate at the rim, enhancing your olfactory experience. Let the whisky rest for a few minutes after pouring to allow it to breathe and open up further.

For those who prefer their whisky with a touch of water, a few drops can help to release additional floral notes and soften the smokiness slightly. Experiment to find your perfect dilution ratio.

Food Pairings for the Adventurous Palate

The Highland Park Viking Honour pairs well with a variety of foods, allowing you to create a truly memorable tasting experience. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the whisky's sweetness, while a sharp cheddar can stand up to the smokiness.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is a classic pairing for Scotch whisky. The bitterness of the chocolate cuts through the sweetness of the whisky, creating a delightful contrast.
• Smoked Meats: Smoked salmon, duck, or even a perfectly grilled steak share the smoky character of the Viking Honour, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Fruits and Nuts: A selection of dried fruits and nuts, such as apricots, raisins, almonds, and walnuts, can enhance the various flavour profiles of the whisky.

The Viking Honour: A Worthy Tribute

The Highland Park Viking Honour 12 Year Old lives up to its name. It's a complex and flavourful whisky that embodies the rich heritage of the Orkney Islands. With its balance of sweetness, spice, and smoke, it's a single malt that is sure to please both seasoned connoisseurs and those new to the world of Scotch whisky. So, raise a glass and embark on your own Orcadian adventure with the Highland Park Viking Honour.