Highland Park Reveals New The Dark 17-Year-Old Scotch

The Highland Park Scotch whisky distillery has a thing for releasing themed bottlings that come in sets. We’ve seen this over the years with the Valhalla and Giants line ups, and now they’ve come out with the first of two bottlings inspired by the seasons on the isle of Orkney where they are located.

Highland Park The Dark, according to those behind it, is a 17-year-old single malt whisky that’s been aged exclusively in European oak sherry seasoned casks. It draws its name in part from the the autumn and winter seasons on Orkney, and has been bottled at 52.9% ABV.

This whisky, not to be confused with the previously released Highland Park Dark Origins, comes in a jet black bespoke glass bottle set with a serpent dragon embossed on the front. It comes housed in a special oak cradle and is accompanied by a booklet said to describe the thinking behind this latest special edition of 28,000 bottles.

“The Dark is the first of two special editions,” said Jason R. Craig, Brand Director, Highland Park, in a prepared statement. “The Light will be launched in spring 2018. Both editions share the story of the contrasting seasons of our Orkney islands and the resulting intense balance of Highland Park whisky.”

Highland Park The Dark is retailing for around £190, or about $255 USD. You’ll find very limited official tasting notes below for your consideration.

Flavors: Dried fruits | Cinnamon | Toasted almonds | Cedar wood | Fruitcake | Light peat smoke