Highland Park The Light 17 Year

Light (appropriately) with an almost ‘prickly’ finish on the tongue, but fairly mild nose, and relatively short finish. Slightly higher ABV than most Highland Park expressions, but doesn’t really challenge the drinker in this dram. American Oak casks, so the vanilla notes are front and centre. Lovely.

One of 12 1/2 or 1/4 oz pours drammers club. Nice tropical feel with notes of vanilla, caramel, kiwi, citrus, floral, apricot, and chocolate.

Nose - (w/o water) Light smoke, fresh pears, hay, light floral honey, hint of salt (w/ water) Smoke is almost gone, pears, hay/grass, honey Taste - (w/o water) Light smoke, pears, hint of caramel, light honey, light salt, lightly drying, white pepper spice/heat (w/ water) Light smoke re-appears, more black pepper than white pepper tingle, light oaky bitterness comes out in addition to the same flavors w/o water Finish - (w/o water) Light tingle/heat, lingering light smoke, golden simple sugar, hints of pear, honey, lemon zest (w/ water) Light tingle/heat still, hint of oaky bitterness, pear, honey, salt, lemon zest Score - 82/100 Final Thoughts - This surprisingly drank well below its proof. The nose wasn't too punchy for the proof. Nice balance of smoke, fruit, & sweet. Addition of water softened the nose a bit, but brought out some oaky bitterness that wasn't bad, but a tad distracting. I think this one is tasty and I could see myself reaching for this every once in a while, but not at what it's priced at. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - No Would I buy a bottle? - No