Highland Park Valkyrie

Nose - leather, sherry, mixed berries, slight undertones of smoke Palate - heavy rich malt, followed by sweet smoke Finish - oily leather and cigar ash

Smokey + Honey Nose, licorice + Smokey taste

The nose is full of smoke and brine, giving the drink and air of Viking manliness. Upon taking a sip, there is considerable depth, with tobacco and brine fighting to overcome the sweetness of grog. Although they ultimately win, the purity of vanilla remains briefly before the tobacco swallows it up. The complexity of this scotch is delightful. The flavor is rich with a hidden, toffee sweetness throughout that makes one think of some benevolent being overseeing the conflict below. Do not underestimate this scotch. Under most circumstances it adds something interesting and refreshing to the party. It is a bit odd and the depth could be greater, but this is a great Scotch. I particularly appreciate that despite its spring flavor, it is possible to drink another liquor that is not based on peat after it. Most of its quality comes from its unique combination of smoke, peat, salt, brine, and sweetness, but the fact that all of those flavors are distinguishable and exist in harmony makes this a great success. More variation over its life would be nice, but this is a terrific drink. Compared with an Islay Scotch, it has a creamy toffee sweetness with a smoky richness and some salty sea spray that makes a big and unique impression. It's sort of like (emphasis on "sort of") Springbank 10 with a sweeter body and finish, punchier flavors, and a bit less complexity. I really enjoy it. It smells smoky and fruity with a nice balanced sweetness. Drinking it, the smoke and the fruit come out with minerals and plenty of vanilla and floral elements that just skirt tasting like gross bread. There's peat, but the smoke is terrific with its chocolatey flavor. There is some spicy harshness that does blend a bit with alcohol unfortunately. This is rich and tasty. While it does need some polish, it's very good whiskey that reminds me of Highland Park The Dark at a fraction of the price with a bit less balance and more playfulness. The harshness and tartness do eventually become a bit overwhelming though. It lacks the nectar quality of Highland Park 18, but is still great.

I'm sorry, but I hate it. I don't know exactly why. It is just an affront to my taste buds. Ironically, my friends loved it.

Surprisingly light and sweet once you get past the peak.