Highland Park Einar

Highland Park base malts (12, 15, 18) have always been a favorite of mine. They have lately drifting away from the aged statement whiskies and concentrating on their NAS whiskies. I have my reservations, however. A soft and sweet nose that is malty with Brown sugar. Sherry notes of nuts and raisins with a touch of tropical fruits, toasted coconut and, way deep, banana. A hint of smoke, the Highland Park smoke, is there as well. The palate is introduced with a thin body with an immediate brown sugar and maple syrup sweetness that dissapates swiftly. That transition becomes cinnamon spicy and roasted almonds and oak. An earthiness base underlies the sweet and spicy. A sour bitterness takes hold into the finish. A slightly drying and oaky palate remains. White pepper spice with a ginger bitterness that lingers to the end. An easy dram that does not venture far from the middle. Safe and unadventurous. It has some good flavor, but lacks a punch or flair. The whisky would probably be improved if it was bottled at 43%. Highland Park, in my opinion, is losing focus and has been lacking in a cohesive direction and trying to find it's way through this age of NAS. This malt is indicative of that sentiment. Average, safe that seeks mass market appeal. [83/100][Tasted: 11/29/17]

Color: Light honey colored Nose: Light caramel, floral, subtle wood tones. Palate: Light, a little watery. Slight sherry, orange peel, slight bitter but fruity, not much smoke. Finish: Doesn’t linger, soft finish.