Highland Park 2002 18 YO Connoisseurs Choice (GM)

Highland Park 2002 18 YO Connoisseurs Choice, 18 YO, 58.1%

A Highland Park single cask release from independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail. Distilled 2002-12-04, matured in a single refill ex-sherry butt (cask #6431), and bottled 2021-02-15. Limited to 572 bottles.

Nose: Soft and elegant with vanilla, caramel, milk chocolate and floral honey. Gentle peat hums in the background, lending depth and balance to the sweetness.

Taste: Full bodied and lively. Dried fruits, cinnamon, cut grass and mint intertwine with a firm, well-defined smokiness that stands out for a Highland Park.

Finish: Medium long. Red berries join the dried fruits, complemented by white pepper, dark chocolate and a refreshing touch of mint.

Comment: Balanced sweetness with confident smoke. 

Score 86/100

PS! Big thanks to Tore H.V. for the generous sample!

Sláinte!
-Thomas