Highland Park Helluland

Damn. I didn't intend to get this. Now that I'm limiting myself to one dram weekly, I must cut back on purchases. Otherwise, 450 bottles will rapidly become 800. I had a small sample at a large liquor store, and it captivated me instantly. This is a 13-year-old single sherry cask Highland Park; a rarity. At $200, it's pricey, but it's non-chill filtered, single cask, sherry Highland Park with an age statement. Most importantly, its flavor is what amazed me. The aroma is black cherries and sweet frosting. On the palate, it has a very light smokiness with floral notes...raspberries and a hint of salt. Excellently crafted. I ended up buying a bottle.

Costly, flavorful like the Valknut, but less mellow or smoky than the 12 and 18. The 12 and 18 are much superior, but I enjoy this one greatly. The price is high because it's from a single cask. Funds would be better utilized on the 18 year or the Valknut (similar taste, similar bite, but much more affordable.)

The nose has notes of blackberries and vanilla custard. The palate has a light smokiness, a vague sweetness, and a delicious finish. It's almost like caramel and oak, drinking more like a high-quality rye in my opinion!