Highland Park 13 Year Old 2004 SMWS 4.249

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society – SMWS in short – does not need an introduction. They bottle a lot of single casks from all distilleries, both Scottish and others. This cask – SMWS 4.249 – is a Highland Park from 2004. The sherry butt yielded no less than 592 bottles at cask strength. Keep water handy, for 64.6% is very sturdy indeed.

Delicious nose on smoldering wood on a sandy beach with lots of salted caramel and liquorice. Pineapple on the barbecue. Chocolate in the background. Espresso, even. Seaweeds and candied ginger. And what a balance. Truly grand nose!

It comes as no surprise that this is a kick to the teeth. And yet it is drinkable without dilution (unless you cannot cope with the tears in your eyes). What a powerhouse! The sweetness is now losing the battle from the saltiness. The maritime traits dominate and give it a lovely warm character.

The finish lasts forever, in which sweet and salty go head to head again. Sweetness withdraws in shame.

This certainly does credit to its name ‘The Mermaid’s Marmalade’. Thanks, Anthony.

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