I fell in love with Highland Park when I first tasted their 30 year-old expression and got a chance to try Cadenheads 25 year-old Highland Park expression. Those two whiskies without a doubt are two of the best I’ve tasted.

If you have not read any of my links above on Highland Park, I’ll give you a little bit of info on the distillery. Highland Park is an extremely well known and respected brand. The distillery was established in 1798 and is located in the Orkney Islands in Scotland. They like very few other distilleries still use the traditional malting floor method. They use Sherry Oak casks to mature their product as opposed to ex-bourbon casks. Their whisky is also harmonised (meaning blended) for up to 6 months to ensure a quality product is put out.

I got the chance to try their 12 year-old this past week at the house of my friends Shannon and Rob. Rob had just purchased it and yes, off-course I wanted to try it. Although, I’ll admit that even with knowing how respected Highland Park is, I was a tad bit skeptical trying the 12 year-old after having started with the likes of the 30 year-old.

No, the 12 year-old is definitely not better than the 30 year-old, but it is still good whisky that is perfect for someone who wants a good tasting whisky at a reasonable price and it’s also perfect as a starter whisky for anyone just getting into Scotch.

Tasting Notes

Nose: salt, spices, and hints of peat

Palate: honey, citrus, wood and hints of smoke

Finish: very smooth and whisky

This 12 year-old has a good sweet and salty balance. The smoothness of it helps cater to anyone just being introduced to whisky. I will definitely add this 12 year-old whisky as an option for when non-whisky drinkers ask me what they should start with. Experienced whisky drinkers might not be floored by it, but it is still a good product to start with and a good product for the price.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.