Highland Park 30 Year Old 1988 Signatory Cask Strength 30th Anniversary

In 2018 Signatory Vintage celebrated their 30th anniversary and bottled some exquisite single casks – presented in a fantastic chest with glasses and certificate – of which I was able to try quite a few. One of those was this wonderful Highland Park 1988, that slept for 30 years on a cask before going into the bottle at 49.7%. Bottle? No, sir, it’s a decanter. Those decanters look great, but pouring from them is something else. It is a true pleasure to try it once again.

Yes, hello! Fantastic spirit-driven nose on orchard fruit, citrus, honey, green herbs and heather. A soft sea breeze and surprisingly mild hint of oak give it depth. Pure class!

The wonderful nose continues on the palate. Waxy and elegant with oak, tropical fruit and a wonderful but very soft note of peat. Rocks in the surf. High waves. Camphor and liquorice, pinch of salt and more citrus. And lots of class.

The finish is mighty on salted citrus peel, green herbs and pebbles on the beach. Even the hint of cardboard does not dampen my exaltedness.

Gorgeous! What you call a no frills Highland Park, but of the highest order. It was available for 525 EUR upon release, but the 220 bottles were gone in the blink of an eye. Today, you pay double or triple that price. Ouch! One of the best HPs I’ve ever tried.

Find where to buy Highland Park whisky