Highland Park 2006/2024 18 Years - Signatory Vintage
An 18-years Highland Park bottled by Signatory Vintage – sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? What makes this release even more exciting is that it’s not another “Secret Orkney,” but a genuine Highland Park, showcasing the distillery’s signature style. On paper, it promises a lot – but does it deliver? Let’s find out.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first sniff unveils a wonderfully complex bouquet: freshly cut grass, sun-dried hay, and a subtle maltiness set the stage. Fruity undertones follow – think a basket of ripe fruits, led by baked apples. There’s a delicate, pleasant smokiness intertwined with a maritime breeze that completes this aromatic symphony.
Palate
The palate keeps the intrigue alive with its distinctive maritime foundation. Ripe apples and a touch of caramel add sweetness, while hay and a slight chalky note provide a grounding earthiness. Despite its 52 % ABV, the whisky feels incredibly smooth and well-rounded – a testament to its exceptional balance.
Finish
The finish is as rewarding as the palate. Notes of candied apples and a hint of honey meet a gentle peatiness. This peat doesn’t overwhelm but rather adds depth and volume, lingering gracefully on the tongue and inviting another sip.
Thoughts
Marcel 88/100
A Highland Park that simply delights with its maritime freshness and perfectly integrated peat smoke – the balance between character and drinking pleasure is spot on here. A whisky that captivates both connoisseurs and curious enthusiasts alike with its lively fruit basket and pleasant sweetness. Absolutely recommended for anyone seeking a multi-layered yet approachable single malt.
Sascha 85/100
This 18-years Highland Park from Signatory Vintage impresses with its balanced structure and the harmonious integration of its 52% ABV. The complex combination of maritime notes, ripe apples, and subtle peat smoke presents a precise flavor profile with a long-lasting finish. A technically sound whisky that clearly reflects the distillery’s signature while skillfully complementing the independent bottler’s style.
Value for Money: Good
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Kirsch Import. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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86/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does this Highland Park 2006/2024 differ from other releases by the distillery?
The Highland Park 2006/2024 from Signatory Vintage is an independent bottling with 18 years of maturation and a higher alcohol content of 52%. Unlike many standard releases, it exhibits a more intense maritime character and a balanced smokiness that is typical for Highland Park but here feels particularly present and finely integrated.
Why is the maritime character so pronounced in this whisky?
The maritime character arises from the distillery’s location on Orkney, a Scottish island group in the North Atlantic. The salty sea air influences both the maturation in oak casks and the whisky’s aroma development, resulting in a subtle salty and fresh note that defines this Highland Park.
How does the high alcohol content of 52% affect the taste and drinking experience?
At 52% ABV, this whisky is powerful yet well balanced. The higher alcohol content intensifies the aromas and delivers a full-flavored experience without being harsh. For a harmonious drinking experience, it is recommended to add a few drops of water to better perceive the complex flavor nuances.