Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (85)
Colour: gold. Nose: relatively smooth and easy, with ripe melons and peaches, as well as whiffs of eucalyptus and camphor. That's nice. Also a little crème brûlée and touches of liquorice. I think there's much more happening than in the previous warriors. More and more overripe apples after ten minutes, as well as old walnuts. Mouth: a little thin but not as frustrating as the '40%'. Tarte tatin and orange cake, earl grey, mead and apple juice. A touch of salt, a little Ovaltine, some liquorice... And some honeydew. Finish: rather short and a little drying. Tea. Nice oranges, soft spices and honey in the aftertaste, though. Comments: certainly a very, very fine Highland Park but a little more oomph would have been welcome.
Gal Granov (89)
This marks the starts of the “premium” warriors in the series, the ABV is a wee bit higher (at 43 which is not a lot, I know, but better than 40%) and also there is more European oak in those to allow for richer sherry profiles. As for Sigurd after which this dram is named : Sigurd is considered amongst the strongest & most courageous warriors and ultimately one of the most feared Viking Earls.
Nose: Lovely ripe fruit salad going on here. Sultana and plum shine in addition to vanilla and pudding like aromas.
Palate: Sweeter and thicker indeed , not without ample spice ,enough smoke , damp wood, heather, sweet nectar, Kirsch and apple toffee.This is more like it!!
Finish : Sweet, thick and rewarding.
summary:I like this one a lot. It’s a step up, and you can feel the extra Spanish sherry casks kick in and give it that trademark HP sweetness, but with the right amount of smoke and wood to balance it all. Lovely!
Whisky Notes (87)
Nose: a complex, very refined nose, with plenty of layers and no dominating aromas. Moss, dried grasses and eucalyptus oils. Ginger and cinnamon. Light fruity notes (apples, melons) and a soft smoky overtone. Mouth: oily texture and a salty attack. Dutch liquorice. Honey sweetness underneath, as well as a hint of vanilla custard. Plenty of spices: nutmeg, pepper and ginseng. Becomes oaky and sappy as time goes by, with a smoky edge. Finish: soft, with the oaky notes building and just vague shadows of the fruit. Honeyed tea.
I really liked the delicate, almost soft but nonetheless complex nose. The palate was a little less smooth and had some loud oak.
BOW (88)
A Tribute to Norse Mythology
Highland Park is a renowned distillery that has built a strong reputation for producing exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies. Known for their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, they have released a series of whiskies inspired by Norse mythology, paying homage to the distillery's rich Viking heritage. One notable expression from this collection is the Highland Park Sigurd The Warrior Series, bottled at 43% ABV. Let's explore the story behind this whisky and its unique characteristics.
A Tale of Valor and Adventure:
The Highland Park Sigurd The Warrior Series draws its inspiration from the legendary Norse hero, Sigurd, who embodies the spirit of bravery, courage, and adventure. In Norse mythology, Sigurd is celebrated as a fearsome warrior, renowned for slaying the dragon Fafnir and acquiring great treasures.
Tasting Notes:
This expression is a testament to the distillery's dedication to producing whiskies of exceptional quality. The Highland Park Sigurd The Warrior Series showcases a harmonious balance of flavors that captivate the senses. At 43% ABV, it offers a smooth and approachable drinking experience.
On the nose, one can expect a delightful fusion of aromatic spices, with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon intermingling with the sweetness of dried fruits. The palate reveals a symphony of flavors, combining rich dark chocolate, honeyed vanilla, and a touch of heather smoke. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth and a subtle smoky sweetness.
Craftsmanship and Maturation:
Highland Park is known for its meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of whisky production. The Sigurd expression is crafted using a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, carefully chosen to enhance the whisky's character. The influence of these casks imparts a complexity and depth to the spirit, showcasing the expertise of the distillery's master blenders.
A Collector's Item:
The Highland Park Sigurd The Warrior Series, with its limited availability and connection to Norse mythology, has become a sought-after collector's item among whisky enthusiasts and fans of Viking lore. Its distinctive packaging, featuring intricate artwork depicting scenes from Sigurd's legendary adventures, adds to its allure.
Conclusion:
Highland Park Sigurd The Warrior Series is a remarkable expression that pays tribute to the heroic tales of Norse mythology. With its carefully crafted flavor profile and captivating storytelling, it offers whisky aficionados a unique and memorable drinking experience. Whether you are a whisky enthusiast or an admirer of Viking heritage, this expression is a worthy addition to any collection. Savor the spirit of Sigurd and embark on a journey through the realms of flavor and mythology with Highland Park's Sigurd The Warrior Series.
