Highland Park Thorfinn Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

HP launched their NAS 'Warrior Series' back in 2013, (some of which were exclusive to travel retail). It started with Einar, Svein and Harald and soon followed with Sigurd, Ragnvald and Thorfinn. From the entry level right up to the top-of-the-line, the concept was to introduce increasingly older whiskies and ever higher proportions of European oak to the mix. Thorfinn is where the journey peaks with a whisky 100% matured in European (Spanish) oak, all sherry casks of which more than 50% are first fill.

Thorfinn was sometimes known as Thorfinn The Mighty, and was one of the most powerful Earls of Orkney, so the intention has been to produce a whisky to match. A man of much power and inspiration, at one stage controlling the whole of the Orkney islands, after saving the people from the harsh rule inflicted by his brother Einar, Thorfinn is still celebrated for bringing change to the islands.

Otherwise available as a Travel Retail exclusive, this limited edition Highland Park comes presented in a stunning black lacquer box with embossed gold embellishments.

Other reviews... More obviously sherried on the nose than either Sigurd or Ragnvald; buttery, with figs, sultanas, vanilla, a hint of leather, and ripe oranges. Rich and silky on the complex palate; overt sherry, ginger, and lots of old leather and sweet smoke. Spice is quite muted here. The finish is lengthy, with plain chocolate, wood smoke, figs, and tingling spices. Luxurious and accomplished.
89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, Reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2013)