Highland Park distillery, renowned for its exceptional Scotch whisky, is currently owned by Edrington, a well-established company in the spirits industry. Edrington is also the owner of other renowned brands such as The Macallan, The Glenrothes, and The Famous Grouse. This ownership ensures that Highland Park is in good hands and benefits from the expertise and resources of a reputable company.
Having visited Highland Park distillery myself, I can attest to the commitment of Edrington to preserve the traditional production processes that have been in place for generations. One notable example is their “New Kiln,” which is over a century old. This demonstrates their dedication to maintaining the authenticity and heritage of the distillery.
Edrington's ownership of Highland Park allows for a collaborative approach among their portfolio of brands. This synergy enables the sharing of knowledge, techniques, and resources, ultimately contributing to the overall quality and success of Highland Park whiskies.
It is worth mentioning that Edrington's ownership does not mean a departure from the distillery's historical production methods. On the contrary, there is a conscious effort to retain the traditional practices that have made Highland Park whiskies so highly regarded. This commitment to tradition is evident in every step of the production process, from the malting of the barley to the aging in oak casks.
One of the unique aspects of Highland Park is their use of traditional floor malting. This hands-on process involves manually turning the barley on the malting floor, allowing for precise control over the germination process. This traditional approach imparts a distinct character to the barley, resulting in a rich and flavorful whisky.
Additionally, Highland Park is known for its use of traditional peat in the malting process. The peat, sourced from the nearby Hobbister Moor, adds a subtle smoky and earthy flavor to the whisky, further enhancing its complexity.
The ownership of Highland Park by Edrington also provides access to a wide range of resources and expertise. This includes access to high-quality oak casks for maturation, which play a crucial role in developing the flavors and aromas of the whisky over time. The knowledge and experience of Edrington's team of blenders and distillers also contribute to the consistent high quality of Highland Park whiskies.
Highland Park distillery is currently owned by Edrington, a company with a strong presence in the spirits industry. Despite the ownership, the distillery remains committed to preserving its traditional production methods, ensuring that the whiskies continue to embody the rich heritage and exceptional quality for which Highland Park is renowned.