Viking honor. The marketing screams Valhalla — storms, axes buried in oak. But in the glass? You get the Viking from the medieval fair. He looks fierce, maybe lets out a roar for show, but in the end he’s patiently posing for selfies with tourists. Highland Park 12 delivers the feeling of adventure — without the danger. It plays the role perfectly, but it doesn’t hurt anyone.
The Facts
Highland Park 12 Viking Honour
Islands (Orkney) | 12 Jahre | 40% | Sherry Seasoned European & American Oak
My Notes
Nose:
Sweet, fruity, almost charming. Raisins and chocolate up front. The smoke? It’s there, but it doesn’t attack. This isn’t a campfire — more like a fog machine. Everything feels rounded, polished, almost a little too agreeable.
Palate
Soft. Very soft. The raisins return, the oak checks in. Then a brief flash of alcoholic heat — a small reminder that this is whisky, not juice. But the smoke stays in the background, adding structure without edge. It’s sweet, approachable, but lacking bite. It does its job, no question — it just doesn’t take any risks.
Finish
Short. Dry. The oak says goodbye — and then it’s gone. In the end, a delicate white wine note lingers.
The Aura
Why these colors? Heather Purple is the soul of Orkney — the heather that gives the smoke its distinct character, even if it speaks softly here. Honey Gold reflects the dominant sweetness — raisins, chocolate — smoothing everything over. And Soft Smoke? That’s the smoke that doesn’t bite, just gently wraps around you. A mist, not a fire.
My Verdict on Highland Park 12
A solid, sweet all-rounder. It delivers exactly what it promises: a touch of Viking romance. Perfect for beginners who want to try “smoke” without breaking into a cough. For me? A bit too staged. A Viking who’d rather pose for photos than fight battles. It’s enjoyable and well made — but it plays it safe.
Want a bit more edge? Take a look at Port Askaig 8.
Like this direction? Then check out Millstone Sauternes as well.
The Official Tasting Notes for Highland Park 12
Here’s the distillery’s official version for comparison:
Nose: Fresh, clean, and highly aromatic. Floral notes mingle with a light grassy touch. Creamy Manuka honey and juicy citrus fruits, rounded out by a well-balanced sweetness.
Palate Full-bodied with a pleasant depth. Grilled orange, wholegrain toast, and green tea with jasmine. A touch of sweetness rounds out the profile.
Finish Fairly long, with peppery spice and wood shavings.
The Reality Check
Highland Park paints a picture of “depth” and “full-bodied” richness, highlighting nuanced notes like green tea and jasmine. My experience is more straightforward. The complexity may be there, but it doesn’t demand your attention. Where they see depth, I experience approachability. And that “fairly long” finish? For me, it was short and dry. The marketing sells a wild adventure; the glass delivers a well-run tourist attraction. Both have their place — you just need to know which one you’re getting.