Highland Park 21 Years Old 47.5% NV

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Serge Valentin (88)

The 21yo caused quite an outcry when it was recently brought down to 40% ABV because lowering stocks. This is the former version.

Colour: full gold.

Nose: a very flowery and honeyed start, very aromatic, its smell hangs heavy in the room. Lilac, orange blossom, dandelions, heather, then fresh orange juice, light sherry, sultanas and even whiffs of golden rum. A little oak as well, earl grey tea, vanilla, and then apple pie and pastries. A very expressive one, it’s maybe even a tad too wordy. I’m joking.

Mouth: rich and almost as honeyed as on the nose, but it’s rather less rounded and luscious than expected. The oak speaks almost immediately, with some green tea, vanilla and a faint sourness, with more and more spices arriving to the front. Mostly ginger, cloves and green pepper. The rest is all on orange cake and macha.

Finish: long, a little more citrusy, with even more spices. A rather peppery aftertaste. Comments: a very discreet peat in this version, and nose and palate are quite different. Very good nonetheless.

Words of Whisky (91)