Highland Park Valkyrie
Remember how I failed to get this whiskey last winter? Well, not this time. If I decided I'm going to get this bottle, then I will. There are too many things in life that don't come true, so I won't let that happen with alcohol.
Nose: sweet, moist. Banana, vanilla, dark chocolate, green apples, orange, cinnamon. There are also mineral notes and hints of peat. Barely noticeable alcohol. Sometimes, the aromas of mash and mediocre red wine emerge, and if they weren't there, it would be even better, because there are no problems with the intensity and balance of the aroma.
Taste: oily, moderately sweet. Distinct smokiness, even a hint of charcoal, malt, and chocolate form the basis of the flavor profile, while citrus and unripe apples play a secondary role. Bright, quite drinkable, despite some pungency.
Finish: medium length, soft, and warming. Pears, lingonberry jam, a slight oaky bitterness.
I personally liked it, but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Of course, you can feel its youth; I would have guessed it was about 8 years old, and more design thought was put into it than distillation, but that was to be expected. The whiskey is pleasant, rich, even with a certain claim to originality, but there are also enough shortcomings. The taste lacks balance and complexity.
What I liked was the ability to pair this whiskey with cigars; the sweetness and density of the flavor were perfect for that.
Overall, the whiskey lives up to expectations, but not much more.
85/100
