Description
The Highland Park 21 Years Old Release 2023 is an impressive example of the art of cask selection and the benefits of long, careful maturation. For this limited bottling, Master Whisky Maker Gordon Motion hand-picked a total of 36 casks that were filled between 1998 and 2001. The selection includes ex-bourbon hogsheads, first-fill sherry casks made from European and American oak and rare ex-Rioja casks. This exceptional combination creates a complex, deep whisky that embodies the essence of Highland Park at the highest level.
Bottled at 46% vol., this 21-year-old single malt displays a masterful balance between sweetness, spice and smoke. It opens with enticing aromas of tropical fruits, roasted almonds, freshly grated nutmeg and floral peat smoke. A multi-faceted harmony unfolds on the palate: lemon zest, aromatic fenugreek, apples caramelised in honey and cinnamon and a hint of cedar-smoked paprika characterise the multi-layered taste. The finish is long and intense, characterised by woody spices, citrus oil and peaty smoke with a hint of heather. This single malt is supplied in an elegant gift box (GB), which emphasises its exclusive character.
Tasting NoteColour: Amber with golden reflections.
Nose: Tropical fruits, roasted almonds, nutmeg and floral peat smoke.
Taste: Complex and balanced with lemon peel, fenugreek, caramelised apples, honey, cinnamon and smoky wood notes.
Finish: Langs and rich with woody spices, citrus oil and peaty smoke, underpinned by heather.
The Highland Park 21 Years Old Release 2023 is perfect for drinking neat to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of its flavours. With a drop of water, it opens up further and reveals additional fruitiness and spice. In culinary terms, it harmonises particularly well with game dishes, mature cheese or chocolate desserts with cinnamon and nuts, which emphasise its rich and balanced structure.
