The names of distilleries, the contours or the labelling on their bottlings aren’t always flashy marketing gimmicks, nor trivial unthought design consequences that give an expression its mark or identity. Many of these distilleries are over two centuries old, strongly entwined with history and the culture of the land. One example and the subject of this review is the Highland Park. Established in 1798, this distillery is no stranger to carvings depicting wolves, bears, serpents and knights, boldly reflecting its rich Nordic and Celtic heritage. The Orkney Islands, the birthplace of HP carries rich Scandinavian history, the reason why their bottles have embossed knotwork influenced by 12th century woodwork that represented battles and inspirations from old legends prevalent at the time.

This 14 YO “Loyalty of the Wolf” is a travel exclusive from Highland Park, introduced during the middle of 2018 as part of their animal inspired bottlings. This expression is both “Sweet and Complex”, matured in a combination of sherry seasoned American oak and ex-bourbon casks. It doesn’t appear to be all that peaty, and comes bottled at an acceptable 42.3%. However does it offer more bang for buck or keeps with the Highland Park ethos?

ABV : 42.3% | Natural Colouring

Eye : Deep Gold

Nose : Vanilla cake with a sort of nuttiness, mild char mixed in with tropical nuances, melons with a touch of spice, ginger, cardamom and a pinch of pepper.

Taste : Sweet on the palate, infused with cardamom spice, charred melons, with a whisper of smoke. There’s dried fruits, hints of raisins and a touch of white pepper.

Finish : Short to Medium | Orange zest and vanilla, woody with hints of spice.

The long trailing legs and the velvety, viscous appearance as it swirls and coats the tulip’s insides, shows off its thick, rich, and well bodied character. A sweetness that is both subtle and comforting, drawing you in, but yet showing restraint. There’s a whisper of spice that compliments the overall expression but doesn’t propel it to heights. There’s a lack of depth and complexity, with only a bit more than a bee’s bum of peat. It fails to hit the sweet spot, prancing around but never warranting an ovation.

I did come into this differently, only to be left deflated. Every bit a mediocre pour, that doesn’t entice, taking not more than a night to be forgotten. I usually am left wanting more when what’s inside my glass is a Highland Park, this being the exception. I wouldn’t waste my time on this one, and would hope you didn’t too!

Slainte!