Highland Park Distillery

Highland Park Distillery: A Heritage of Vikings and Peat

The Highland Park distillery, nestled in the hills of Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, stands as a monument of Scottish whisky production, steeped in traditions that date back to the Vikings. With its unique geographical location, rich history, and dedication to craftsmanship, Highland Park represents a unique blend of culture and whisky production. This article delves into the characteristics that make Highland Park so special, explores how the whiskies of Highland Park have changed over the years, and corrects an error regarding the whisky production of BenRiach.
 

What are the characteristics of the Highland Park distillery?

One of the most distinctive characteristics of Highland Park is its deep connection to Viking heritage. The Orkney Islands were under Norwegian rule for more than 600 years, and this history has a lasting impact on the distillery. Highland Park not only honors this heritage in its branding but also in its production process, where ancient traditions and craftsmanship are central.
The Use of Local Peat

The peat used for malting the barley at Highland Park is locally sourced and contains a unique blend of heather, giving the whisky a distinctive aromatic profile. This contributes to the subtle, yet complex, smokiness that Highland Park whiskies are known for.
Climate and Maturation

The cool, maritime climate of Orkney influences the maturation of the whisky in a way that is not found anywhere else in Scotland. This results in a slow and steady maturation, allowing the whiskies to develop their rich character and balanced flavors.
 

How was Highland Park whisky in the past compared to now?

The essence of Highland Park whisky has remained consistent over the years, focusing on quality and complexity. However, like many distilleries, Highland Park has introduced changes and innovations in their production processes.
Changes in Production

In the past, whisky production was more influenced by manual labor and less by modern technology. Although Highland Park still uses traditional methods, such as manually turning the malted barley and using coal fires for distillation, technological advancements have contributed to greater consistency and control over the distillation process.
Evolution of the Range

Over the past decades, Highland Park has expanded its range with a series of age expressions and special editions, highlighting the diversity and richness of their whiskies. These new expressions offer enthusiasts the chance to explore the nuances of Highland Park whiskies, from different cask profiles to limited releases that highlight unique aspects of the distillery and its heritage.
How much whisky does Highland Park produce?

Although the exact production figures of Highland Park are not publicly available, it is clear that their focus is on maintaining the highest quality standards, rather than pursuing mass production. Highland Park strives to ensure that every bottle leaving the distillery serves as an ambassador of their rich heritage, craftsmanship, and the unique conditions of Orkney.