Highland Park – A whiskey distillery at the end of the world

In the rugged and windswept landscape of the Orkney Islands, north of the Scottish mainland, lies Highland Park Distillery. It is one of Scotland's most northerly distilleries, and the location alone gives their whisky a very special character. Here, tranquility, nature and history are present in every drop.

Location and history

Highland Park is located on the largest of the Orkney Islands, just outside the town of Kirkwall. The distillery was founded in 1798, making it one of the oldest in Scotland. The history behind Highland Park is as colourful as the region itself – with smuggling, local traditions and strong Viking connections still part of the distillery’s identity.

Flavor profile and production

Highland Park whisky is known for its unique combination of sweetness and smoke. A key part of the flavour profile is due to the use of locally cut peat, which contains a high proportion of heather. This contributes floral and spicy notes that make Highland Park single malts easily recognisable and loved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

Maturation takes place predominantly in European oak sherry casks, adding depth, body and complexity to the character of the whisky. The balance of sherry sweetness, smoky peat and the natural sea air of Orkney makes Highland Park an experience, even for the most experienced palate.

Iconic bottlings

The distillery has a wide range of both regular and limited releases. Highland Park 12 Years Old is a classic, which many recommend as an entry point into the distillery's style. For collectors and connoisseurs, editions such as 18-, 21- and 25-year-old bottles are highly sought after – not least because of their complexity and high quality.

Many of the bottlings are inspired by Norse mythology and Orkney's Viking history, emphasizing the cultural roots that Highland Park has in the region's identity.

Visit Highland Park Distillery

Although it takes a bit of planning to get to Orkney, a visit to Highland Park is an unforgettable experience for whisky lovers. The old stone-built building overlooking the rugged landscape exudes authenticity and tradition. Tours provide insight into both the production and the history behind the distillery’s distinctive style.

Read more about the distillery here: Highland Park Distillery .

Questions and answers

Where is Highland Park Distillery located?
Highland Park is located in Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands, north of the Scottish mainland.

What makes Highland Park whisky unique?
The combination of heather peat, maritime conditions and sherry casks gives a very special balance between smoke, sweetness and spice.

Can you visit Highland Park?
Yes, the distillery is open to visitors and offers guided tours where you can experience both the production and taste different whiskies.

How old is Highland Park Distillery?
The distillery was founded in 1798 and thus has more than 225 years of history.

Which bottling is recommended for beginners?
Highland Park 12 Years Old is a popular choice for those who want to start exploring the distillery's whisky.

Is Highland Park part of the Highlands region?
No, Highland Park is located in the whisky region of Islands, which includes distilleries on the Scottish islands except Islay.

See our selection of Highland Park Whiskey