Highland Park recently unveiled its new Cask Strength No. 4.
The launch of Cask Strength No.4 sees Orkney-based distillery use a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-port casks to the series for the first time. Matured predominantly in first-fill sherry seasoned European oak casks, along with first-fill ex-bourbon casks, first-fill sherry seasoned American oak casks, first-fill ex-port hogsheads and a small quantity of refill casks. The result is an expression that is 128 proof. These casks were all hand selected by Gordon Motion, Highland Park’s Master Whisky Maker.
“For me, a cask strength whisky really celebrates an individual’s whisky journey, best enjoyed with your own personal level of water and ice added,” said Highland Park Master Whisky Maker Gordon Motion. “The peat from our home in Orkney gives the whisky a completely different character with aromatic heather smoke and unexpected contrasts in sweet and smoky flavors.”
To celebrate the launch of Cask Strength No. 4 in its 225th Anniversary year, Highland Park has partnered with UK-based woodworker Jamie Gaunt to design a commemorative piece shaped from the oak cask staves used to mature the whisky. Inspired by both the flavors of Cask Strength No. 4 and history of Highland Park, Gaunt’s sculpture will be on display in Orkney from summer 2023.
“The crafts of whisky production and woodworking draw many parallels. Just as I transform a piece of wood, wood has the same impact on whisky,” said Jamie Gaunt. “Cask Strength No. 4 is no different; each of the casks used in the whisky contribute to the complex flavors and aromas. To commemorate the launch, I have transformed the staves from the casks to create a unique design inspired by Highland Park in its purest form.”
Highland Park produces each Cask Strength whisky in batches, annually, which allows Motion the freedom to experiment with interesting and exciting styles of casks. This year, expect aromas of crushed lemons and cedar wood, along with peat smoke. On the palate, zesty pink grapefruit and fragrant rose water emerge, expertly balanced with toasted oak and heather-rich peat. A long finish gives way to sun-baked spices and a ribbon of licorice.
Highland Park Cask Strength No.4 is available now for $100.
