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Highland Park – Scotch whisky from Orkney's windswept north
Highland Park: A whisky distillery at the edge of the world
In the raw, windswept landscape of the Orkney Islands, north of the Scottish mainland, you will find Highland Park Distillery. It is one of Scotland's northernmost distilleries, and its location alone gives the whisky a very special character. Here, calm, nature and history are present in every single drop.
Location and history
Highland Park lies 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 of Highland Park is as colourful as the region itself, with smuggling, local traditions and strong links to the Vikings, which are still part of the distillery's identity.
Flavour profile and production
Highland Park whisky is known for its unique combination of sweetness and smoke. An important part of the flavour comes from locally cut peat with a high proportion of heather. It contributes floral and spicy notes that make Highland Park's single malts easy to recognise and loved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
Maturation takes place mainly in sherry casks made of European oak, adding depth, body and complexity to the whisky. The balance between sherry sweetness, peat smoke 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 core and limited releases. Highland Park 12 Years Old is a classic that many recommend as an introduction to the distillery's style. For collectors and connoisseurs, the 18, 21 and 25-year-old bottlings 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, underlining the cultural roots Highland Park has in the region's identity.
Visit Highland Park Distillery
Although getting to Orkney takes a little planning, a visit to Highland Park is an unforgettable experience for whisky lovers. The old stone buildings overlooking the rugged landscape exude authenticity and tradition. The tours give insight into both production and the history behind the distillery's special expressions.
Read more about the distillery here: Highland Park Distillery.
Questions and answers
Where is Highland Park Distillery?
Highland Park is in Kirkwall on 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 of smoke, sweetness and spice.
Can you visit Highland Park?
Yes, the distillery is open to visitors and offers guided tours where you can see production and taste different whiskies.
How old is Highland Park Distillery?
The distillery was founded in 1798 and therefore 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 belongs to the Islands whisky region, which covers distilleries on the Scottish islands except Islay.
See our range of Highland Park whisky
