The distillery was founded in 1798, and assumed to be established by Magnus Eunson. The name of this whisky does not refer to the scotch region known as 'The Highlands', but rather that the distillery was founded on an area called 'High Park' distinguished from a lower area nearby.
The heart and soul of Highland Park, now stamped with "VIKING HONOR" is a perfect harmony of aromatic smoky peat, sweet heather honey and rich fruit cake.
The Basics
ABV: 40%
Cask: ex-Sherry
Nose: Floral with hints of grass, honey, and citrus notes abound.
Taste: Heather honey, winter spices such as nutmeg, a light taste of fruit cake, and a whiff of peat.
Finish: The finish lingers, with spice and oak trailing off as it passes.
Chris' Opinion: Whenever I'm asked to recommend a scotch that's "not to peaty" and "not to sweet" or some variation, this is the bottle I will always recommend. Highland Park 12 is the Scotch that every distiller wishes they could make with this level of quality. Everything about this Scotch is right with me. The nose is fresh and inviting. The taste is sweet with just enough going on to make it interesting, and of course with the lightest kiss of peat, it brings it all together. The finish is there and invites you to try more. Seriously, if you haven't tried this Scotch you need to run out and get it.
Dan's Opinion: Chris says he would use this to introduce people to Scotch, I would go so far as to do that as so many new people have an adverse reaction to peat. I was surprised by this one, there is for sure sure peat on the nose and the taste, but as fast as the peat hits it is quickly followed by a sweetness that could only balance the peat. I didn't want to like this one..but I did, and do.