Highland Park whisky is currently produced by Edrington, a well-known spirits company that also owns other notable brands such as The Macallan, The Glenrothes, and The Famous Grouse. However, the heart and soul of Highland Park remain deeply rooted in its historic production processes that have been passed down through generations.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of whisky and immersing myself in its rich history and craftsmanship. Highland Park has always intrigued me with its unique character and traditional methods.
The ownership of Highland Park by Edrington does not mean that they have abandoned the traditional practices that have made the distillery renowned. On the contrary, Edrington has made it a priority to preserve and honor these time-honored techniques.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Highland Park is their use of an ancient kiln, known as the ‘New Kiln,' which is over 100 years old. This kiln plays a crucial role in the malting process, where the barley is dried using peat smoke, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor to the whisky. The use of this historic kiln showcases the dedication of Highland Park to maintaining the authenticity and character of their whisky.
Furthermore, Highland Park sources its barley from the local region of Orkney, where the distillery is located. This commitment to using locally grown barley ensures a strong connection to the terroir and flavors of the surrounding land.
The traditional production methods at Highland Park extend beyond the malting process. They also employ traditional copper pot stills, which are essential for the distillation process. These stills are carefully designed to capture the essence of the spirit and contribute to the overall flavor profile of Highland Park whisky.
Additionally, Highland Park is known for its extensive use of oak casks during the maturation process. They primarily utilize sherry casks, which have been seasoned with oloroso sherry, to age their whisky. This choice of casks adds layers of complexity and depth to the final product.
Having had the opportunity to taste Highland Park whiskies, I can attest to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. The flavors are a testament to the traditional production methods employed by the distillery.
Highland Park whisky is made by Edrington, who has maintained a strong commitment to preserving the traditional production processes that have made this distillery renowned. From the use of the historic ‘New Kiln' to the sourcing of locally grown barley, Highland Park remains deeply rooted in its heritage. The result is a whisky that showcases the unique character and flavors of the Orkney region, making it a true gem in the world of Scotch whisky.