Highland Park 15 Years Old Loki Valhalla Collection 48.7% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (92)

So the sequel to last year’s Thor and let me tell the most stupid joke ever: I hope it’s not low key (diving to even newer lows, S.!)

Colour: gold.

Nose: not a very different profile, in fact we’re almost right between the 10 and the CS. Actually a little closer to the 10. It’s less cask-driven than last year’s Thor, it’s cleaner, it’s probably more citrusy and certainly more mineral as well as a little medicinal, between iodine and camphor. Some farmy elements as well, something obviously coastal, a blend of various honeys and honeydews, then Virginia tobacco, leather, wax, a few spices (curry?), tiger balm…

Mouth: no, this is great shtuff. Perfect, zesty and lemony yet rich, mineral yet honeyed, wide yet crystalline, coastal yet farmy (that will be it, S.) It’s a HP that’s more islands than highlands, whatever that means. And I’m not saying this because these weeks it’s the 30th anniversary of Brora’s closure, but it is also pretty Brora-esque, in a way. No, I know Brora isn’t on an island, don’t start to quibble with me over trivial issues please.

Finish: long and even more coastal.

Comments: look, I know I should write lukewarm comments because of the price, because of the unlikely packaging (sure it’s all a matter of taste) and so on, but I’m sorry, I love it. Now, who’s that Loki? A girl? What’s sure is that she beats Thor in my book, fair and square.

Gal Granov (89)

Gal Granov:

nose: Hmmm. quite interesting thing are going on here : some apples, waxy notes, with some wood, and quite floral as well. zesty lemon , oats, yet no smoke or peat that I can pick up.

Palate: Big palate, no doubt, starts buttery with Red apples sautéed in butter, then a rather interesting note of exotic fruit (papaya, guava, and a bit of red grapefruit) with a pinch of salt sprinkled over, then some smoke hits the palate with quite a bit of wood on the finish.

Finish : Wood, cooked apples , wood spices galore (cinnamon, and cloves).

Bottom line:

Fancy boat or no boat, this little HP is an excellent whisky, Rather different from the Thor, and a bit better IMHO. Complex enough, and highly enjoyable.

Words of Whisky (90)

Color Pale gold
Nose
A spirited lift of dried bitter orange, which quickly turns into lemon peels. Cardamom notes trick then tease the nose, before an enticing hit of gingerbread develops. With water, liquorice and aromatic smoke are both unleashed.

Taste
The true shape‐shifting ability of Loki springs to life on the palate: its waxy texture is amplified by an intense smoke that doesn't appear on the nose, shattering the light citrusy illusion of the aroma. All is not what it seems. The smoke fades as liquorice and rich spiced apple flavours come out to play. Lemon and grapefruit are consistent throughout this elusive, yet intriguing character. With a touch of water, lingering notes of melted dark chocolate over spent embers leave a soft smoky impression.

Finish
As Loki departs, he leaves behind toasted cloves, hickory smoke and soft vanilla. It is constantly changing, from appearance to finish. Loki is an enigma and truly another whisky of the gods.

Comments
One of the most complex characters in Norse mythology, Loki constantly challenges the gods, questioning their order and hierarchy within Asgard. Yet with every treacherous situation he engineers, his actions ultimately create heroes amongst the other gods.

Like its namesake, this whisky is unpredictable and impulsive, echoing the formidable weather of the Orkney Islands. It is a single malt which is both dynamic and energetic, with constantly evolving flavours and a fiendish inner complexity.



Tasting Notes by Highland Park

BOW (90)

A Legendary Whisky Experience

Highland Park, the renowned distillery from the Orkney Islands, proudly presents the Highland Park 15 Years Old Loki Valhalla Collection. This limited edition single malt Scotch whisky, bottled at a robust 48.7% ABV, pays homage to the mythological god Loki and offers a legendary whisky experience. Let's immerse ourselves in the enchanting world of Highland Park Loki and explore the unique characteristics of this exceptional expression.

A Tribute to the Trickster God:
Highland Park Loki is inspired by the mischievous and daring personality of the Norse god Loki, a master of transformation and intrigue. This expression from the Valhalla Collection embodies the essence of Loki, taking whisky enthusiasts on an adventurous journey filled with surprises and complexity.

An Intriguing Flavor Palette:
The Highland Park 15 Years Old Loki Valhalla Collection offers an intriguing flavor palette that tantalizes the senses. Upon nosing the whisky, vibrant aromas of ripe peaches, juicy apples, and delicate flowers emerge, accompanied by subtle hints of honey and spices.

On the first sip, Loki unveils a bold and vibrant taste experience. Notes of ripe tropical fruits, ginger, and spicy oak spices dance on the tongue, creating a perfectly balanced interplay of sweetness and spiciness. The finish is long-lasting and satisfying, with a touch of smoke subtly mingling with the rich flavors.

Craftsmanship and Maturation:
Highland Park is renowned for its artisanal craftsmanship, and the Loki Valhalla Collection is a perfect example of this. The whisky is distilled in the distillery's distinctive copper pot stills and matured in a combination of ex-sherry casks and American oak casks. This maturation imparts the whisky with its complex character and adds layers of depth and refinement.

A Collection for Whisky Enthusiasts:
The Highland Park Valhalla Collection, including the Loki expression, is a true treasure for whisky enthusiasts and collectors. Each bottle is beautifully designed and features artistic details that bring Norse mythology and the god Loki to life. With limited availability, this collection pays tribute to the rich history and heritage of Highland Park.

Conclusion:
Highland Park 15 Years Old Loki Valhalla Collection is a whisky masterpiece. It brings to life the playful and challenging spirit of the god Loki in a unique and flavorful experience. With its intriguing flavor palette, craftsmanship, and limited availability, this expression showcases the art and passion of Highland Park. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or added to a cherished whisky collection, The Loki is a testament to the distillery's dedication to producing exceptional whiskies that leave a lasting impression.