Highland Park 25 Years Old Dumpy 50.7% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (90)

Colour: plain, deep gold.

Nose: double wow! This time it’s a little less fresh and clean, but much, much more complex. Flowers and fruits, for sure (see above) but also sea air, mocha, peppermint. Hints of eucalyptus and turpentine, freshly crushed hazelnuts, subtle sherry… The developments are simply endless. I’d better stop here or I’ll need bytes and bytes.

Mouth: bold attack, even if much more austere than expected. Smoke, burnt cake, black toffee, coffee liqueur. The alcohol gets even a little burning. Very creamy, though. It really coats your mouth. Lots of crystallised orange, chestnut honey, lemon marmalade. Understatedly fruity (melon, ripe apricot). Hints of camphor. In short, this one is extremely nice, and far less ‘commercial’ than expected.

The finish is very long, on orange syrup and honey. It comes in a nice black ‘pencil box’ but beware, don’t pass it to little children, as the brass shutter can pinch you quite severely. Well, that’s what happened to me, at least…

BOW (91)

A Timeless Classic

The Highland Park 25 Years Old Dumpy Bottle Bottled 2004 50.7% is a whisky that embodies the essence of the renowned Highland Park distillery. With an alcohol content of 50.7%, this single malt whisky is a true classic that showcases the depth and complexity that comes with aging for a quarter of a century.

Bottled in 2004, this expression from Highland Park is housed in the iconic "Dumpy" bottle, adding to its allure and collectability. The whisky within has been carefully matured for 25 years, allowing it to develop a rich and multi-layered character that captivates the senses.

Upon pouring, the Highland Park 25 Years Old reveals a deep amber hue, enticing the eye with its allure. The aroma is a harmonious blend of sweet malt, smoky peat, and subtle notes of dried fruits and spices. It invites you to delve deeper into its complexity.

On the palate, this whisky is a symphony of flavors. Layers of honeyed sweetness, dark chocolate, oak spice, and a touch of heather smoke dance on the tongue, creating a truly indulgent experience. The texture is velvety smooth, coating the palate with a luxurious sensation.

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of warm spices and a gentle smokiness. It leaves a lasting impression, reminding you of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating this exceptional whisky.

The Highland Park 25 Years Old Dumpy Bottle Bottled 2004 50.7% is a testament to the distillery's commitment to producing exceptional single malts. It is a whisky that can be savored and appreciated by connoisseurs and collectors alike. Each sip tells a story of time, tradition, and the mastery of the whisky-making process.

In conclusion, the Highland Park 25 Years Old Dumpy Bottle Bottled 2004 50.7% is a timeless classic that exemplifies the quality and craftsmanship of the Highland Park distillery. Its exquisite flavors, enticing aroma, and long-lasting finish make it a truly exceptional choice for whisky enthusiasts looking for a memorable and indulgent experience.