Highland Park Harald Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Following releases such as Thor and the travel retail exclusives of "Leif Eriksson" and "Drakkar" comes HP's 'Warrior Series'. Global Marketing Manager, Gerry Tosh explains the collection: “It's a natural progression for Highland Park, both in brand terms and in global travel retail. By continuing the celebration of our rich and distinctive Norse heritage we are able to tell stories which bring the brand and its products to life. To further this evolution, the whisky maker has crafted six individual whiskies which collectively offer drinkers a new style of taste journey, still classically Highland Park from start to finish, but giving them a different and holistic experience.” The range begins with a heavy influence of ex-American oak casks at the lower end, with a higher proportion of ex-European and Spanish oak influence in the more expensive lines.They are all no age statement releases. This bottling is named after Harald Fairhair, the King of Norway, who set up the Orkney earldom and was one of the founding pioneers of spreading the Vikings and their heritage around the northern hemisphere.

Other reviews... This Warrior variant takes us closer to Highland Park's traditional DNA, with the nose offering potato peels on a barbecue; earthy and herbal, with developing notes of heather in bloom and even violets. Lively fresh fruits, newly-baked cake, nutmeg, and ginger figure on the palate. The spicy finish is relatively long, with candied citrus peel and licorice. 86 points - whiskyadvocate.com