Highland Park 8 Years Old Clear glass, screw cap 40% NV

Professional reviews

BOW (90)

Highland Park 8 Years Old Vintage Bottle: A Testament to Whisky Legacy

Vintage bottles carry an allure that captivates whisky enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to taste a piece of history. One such remarkable gem is the Highland Park 8 Years Old vintage bottle, a testament to the rich heritage of this esteemed distillery and a cherished collectible among whisky connoisseurs.

Bottled in the 1980s, this expression transports us back in time, inviting us to experience the whisky-making traditions of that era. The vintage bottle itself is a work of art, with its clear glass showcasing the deep, golden hue of the liquid within. The screw cap, a symbol of simplicity, adds to the nostalgia of this remarkable piece.

However, it's essential to approach this vintage bottle with care and mindfulness. The note of caution should not be ignored: due to its age, the closure may have deteriorated over time. When opening the bottle, special attention should be paid to ensure the integrity of the whisky inside. As with any vintage item, it is sold as described, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating its historical value.

To ensure that this precious bottle remains in top-notch condition, parafilm has been added as an extra layer of protection. This careful attention to preservation demonstrates the dedication to maintaining the quality and authenticity of the whisky, allowing enthusiasts to experience it as close to its original state as possible.

Upon opening the Highland Park 8 Years Old vintage bottle, one is greeted by a symphony of aromas that have gracefully matured over the years. The nose unveils delicate hints of honeyed sweetness, intertwined with notes of malted barley and a gentle whisper of peat smoke. It's a sensory journey that evokes the rugged landscapes and rich history of the Orkney Islands, where the Highland Park distillery resides.

When savoring this vintage whisky, its true character shines through. Despite its youthful age, the Highland Park 8 Years Old delivers a surprising complexity of flavors. The palate is greeted with a harmonious blend of vanilla and caramel, dancing alongside subtle fruit notes of apples and pears. These delightful flavors are complemented by a touch of smokiness, adding depth and intrigue to the overall experience.

At 40% alcohol by volume, this vintage bottle offers a smooth and approachable drinking experience. Its lower proof allows for a gentle exploration of the whisky's nuances and subtleties, making it suitable for both seasoned enthusiasts and those beginning their whisky journey.

The Highland Park 8 Years Old vintage bottle is more than just a whisky. It is a time capsule that embodies the craftsmanship, dedication, and passion that went into creating this exceptional spirit. Whether cherished as a collectible or enjoyed on special occasions, this vintage bottle offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the legacy of Highland Park and the artistry of whisky-making.

So, with care and reverence, indulge in the pleasure of opening this Highland Park 8 Years Old vintage bottle. Allow its flavors and aromas to transport you back in time, where you can relish the essence of whisky craftsmanship and embark on a journey of sensory delight. Cheers to the heritage of Highland Park and the enduring legacy of this remarkable vintage bottle.

Serge Valentin (93)

These batches can vary quite a bit in my experience but are almost always top class. I tend to prefer the paler batches, which today is good news because… Colour: bright straw. Nose: an impeccable and almost brittle maritime freshness! Ozone, Atlantic bluster (get a grip already, Angus!) and many evocative impressions of beach foam, rock pools and things like sandalwood and crushed seashells. There's also a very fine-grained, dry peat smoke threading its way between all this, a rather chalky smokiness in fact. Typical, naked and excellent, bone dry old HP! With water: really on medicinal balms, dried herbs and citrus rinds now, even a hint of lemon liqueur and wee pollen notes. Mouth: superbly salty, sharply on lemons, grapefruit and gloriously honeyed waxy notes. Citrons, herbal liqueurs and things like tea tree oil, tiger balm and heather ales. It tends towards the austere side with this drier overall profile, but it packs in such charisma, class and personality that it's hard not to be taken in by the power of the distillate. With water: stunningly herbal, perfectly coastal and really drilling into this beautiful fusion of honeys, waxes and background, earthy peat smoke. Finish: long, smouldering with distant peat smoke, peppery notes, camphor, seashore impressions and herbal teas. Comments: these old HP 100 proofs by G&M are a law and a style unto themselves, totally riddled with distillery character, yet also seemingly wildly varying from batch to batch, era to era - what unifies them is that they are always utterly brilliant whiskies.