Name: Highland Park Viking Honour 12 Year Old Reviews & Tasting Notes
Brand: Highland Park
SKU: 1022716
Price: 55.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 7.3 (283 reviews)

brad, Sep 27, 2020

With value considered, I’d give this a solid 9. Of course I’d prefer Lagavulin 16, but this stuff is half the price and almost as good. Smoke and sweet balance is very nice. I don’t think there’s anything better I’ve tasted in the 50ish range. One of the best to introduce noobies to Scotch in my opinion.

Jesse, Sep 14, 2020

Very smooth and enjoyable, smoke is subtle and moves way for other flavors nicely! Great bottle for the price point.

Jasson, Sep 4, 2020

Very good dram. The nose is floral and smokey (and strong, not to mention). The taste is very bright - smokey and sweet - with a nice, long finish. I had previously tried their Magnus expression and didn't love it. I find Viking Honour to be much more enjoyable (at roughly the same cost).

KEITH, Sep 3, 2020

Very balanced and drinkable.

Ryan, Aug 29, 2020

Cracked this open last night, loved it! The smoke was the only thing I could taste at first, though it's not an overbearing amount, and it opened up after only a few sips to some sweeter and floral flavors. Not life changing by highly enjoyable, will definitely buy this one fairly regularly.

IAN, Aug 27, 2020

I am not used to Scotch but while the bottle was free, it is a little too smokey for my taste!

Chris, Aug 23, 2020

Scotch snobs rate this and every other HP low because they’re dinosaurs and terrified of modern marketing. Don’t let them sway you from this because it’s a great representative of all the scotch regions into one dram.

Michael, Aug 20, 2020

Not a fan. Had many much better 12 year olds. Not refined, not great flavor. There’s a reason for the low price.

guest, Aug 9, 2020

Had high expectations for this but it fell a little flat for me. I really like Highland Park Valknut but this seemed kind of boring. Nose had some light brine with some light fruit notes. Palate started with some honey and citrus, then followed up with some lingering spice. Adding a little water really flattened it out. Didn’t get any smoke or peat at all.

Isaac, Aug 8, 2020

Really an all around great scotch. Ever sip is just perfect

Mark, Jul 28, 2020

Nice peat flavor everything you want from a Scotch

Lee, Jul 27, 2020

Very delicious, smooth, not overly smoked.

Jeff, Jul 27, 2020

Very taste, just a hint of peat and very smooth.

Matthew, Jul 22, 2020

Strong bite. Slight peatiness. Smoother after a splash of water.

Dan, Jul 18, 2020

Enjoyable.

Colin, Jul 15, 2020

A little bite. Great aroma. Enjoyed it

Filomena, Jul 15, 2020

My kind of whiskey! Very smooth

Pedro, Jul 11, 2020

Strong and yet smooth

Hunter, Jul 10, 2020

Awesome whiskey. So great, has so much character but very approachable

JEREMY, Jul 5, 2020

.

Landon, Jun 29, 2020

Surprisingly drinkable for the price! Very satisfied and actually excited to have a bottle for casual sipping.

Todd, Jun 27, 2020

I usually prefer blends but this single malt was smooth.

James, Jun 25, 2020

Eww

Steve, Jun 24, 2020

Very Good. Smooth with a nice light smoke peat flavor

Michael, Jun 24, 2020

Smoky with a fruity aroma.

Heath, Jun 22, 2020

Great whiskey for a slightly advanced palate or someone wanting to explore more beyond base blends.

Michael, Jun 20, 2020

Light peatiness and wonderful fruit tones

Chris, Jun 18, 2020

While I acknowledge it is a well done whiskey, flavor profile is a bit offputting. Too briny for my tastes. Lightly smokey, with some richer, dark fruit flavors underneath. Well done, just not for me

Brandon, Jun 16, 2020

This is my daily all round perfection. Its peat to smooth flavor. You can never go wrong with Viking Honour!

Ann, Jun 13, 2020

This whiskey was tasty, yet immature. I feel that while it was a good drinking tipple. it was not one to be extensively savored. It had the mouth feel of one that would go well with a mixer.

Gerard, Jun 12, 2020

Very good. Nice smooth fruity start with some spice taste afterwards

Dragon, Jun 6, 2020

This was a very good choice. You get a distinct smoky flavor that is not over powering. Smooth flavor without the heavy astringent aftertaste.

Juan, Jun 5, 2020

Overwhelming Taste of putrid smoke. Very hard to drink

Dipal, Jun 4, 2020

Not a great start to the membership with this one. Rough on the way down, didn't taste great, and the flavors were lacking. Hope the next box is better.

Andy, Jun 4, 2020

It's a pretty legit entry to the peaty flavor profile at the end. Quite drinkable and unoffensive. Glad i have it in the cabinet as something different. Good with a few drops of water and a whiskey stone to cool it down a little bit to offset the spicy and peppery notes.

David, Jun 3, 2020

This is my first experience with a full bottle of scotch. It has an ok profile, but I'm not a fan of the peaty flavor profile that comes towards the end of a sip.

Derek, May 27, 2020

This is the first top shelf bottle of whiskey that I've ever bought either from my local store or Flaviar. My pallet isn't as refined yet so I'll try to be honest. It was very smoky and had quite a tinglying burning sensation when it slide down my throat. I will savor this bottle for as long as possible, while it may be brutal to drink now I'm hoping that soon it will be a pleasant part of my day.

Adam, May 26, 2020

First bottle my wife bought for me from flaviar! Smooth going down, semi spicy after taste with a good afterburn! A great first whiskey!

David, May 26, 2020

Medium rim doesn't hold but leaves running legs. Golden wheat color. Nose is light heather smoke, clear salinity. Malty sweetness underneath. Palate has a slight tingle with honey, sea salt and smoke exploding on the finish. Relatively light mouthfeel that is mildly oily. Through the sea and smoke comes a very tempered malt sweetness. Finish is sea and smoke at first then sweet malt creeps in. Overall, I like it - not as good as Valknut or Wall Street, but a great everyday Highland Park.

Steffan, May 25, 2020

Not much better than your run of the mill Jack of Jamie. Good with coke and ice. Would not present to someone wanting to enjoy or savor whisk(e)y.

Bill, May 25, 2020

Found im not a fan of scotch. It was to smokey for me

Arte, May 24, 2020

Very boozy nose with slight smokey introduction. Strong medicinal palate that lingers at finish, numbing the tongue. Water lessens it.

Jon, May 21, 2020

A super easy Scotch for the non-Scotch drinker (and for the Scotch-drinker, too!) Very smooth with just the right amount of peat.

Gerard, May 18, 2020

Smokey and slightly bitter. Better cold than straight uo

Michael, May 18, 2020

Mild peat, nice character, bright and not too heavy.

Rebekah, May 16, 2020

Very Smokey very smooth!

Robert, May 12, 2020

I loved Stephen's NyQuil comparison for its originality, but didn't see any similarity. VH is a robust, flavorful dram, but smooth, and sweet, with different flavors on the palate that keep coming up. Years ago I had a bottle of Highland Park 12 year old that I found pedestrian and belligerent at the same time. The 15 year old was better, but pricier and I stayed away from Highland Park for a long time until this. I'll get again.

Stephen, May 9, 2020

Highland Park Viking Honour tasted a lot like NyQuil when drank straight. It’s a very heavy, smoky taste that overwhelms any hint of floral or orange. Guess I’m not He-Man enough for it.

Jeremy, May 9, 2020

Delightfully smoky, soft vanilla apple sweetness with a beautifully rounded, salty, spicy sherried honey finish. Lovely

Ian, May 8, 2020

If you are looking for a good tasting scotch this is a good one, not a great spearing with cigar tho.

Ian, May 8, 2020

I like the flavor, but it doesn't go as well with a sugar as I had hoped

Giacomo, May 6, 2020

Nice and smooth! Loved it!

guest, May 6, 2020

bitter and terrible. I am looking for something that tastes like Jameson Irish Whisky. Highland was not worth a buck

Caitlin, May 7, 2020

Scotch is not the realm you want to be in if you're looking for something comparable to Jameson. Try a Redbreast or some sweeter bourbons like Longbranch.

LEONARDO, May 6, 2020

IT WAS OK,I HAD BETTER,IT WAS PEATY/SMOKEY WOULD NOT BE MY FIRST CHOICE

Michael, May 6, 2020

It’s a great spirit. Great flavor

Scott, May 4, 2020

I found it to have a bold smokey/peaty taste that was not necessarily my favorite scotch that I have tasted but it was ok.

Ann, May 4, 2020

Found out I'm not a scotch fan. Too strong if s nose. Bitter tasting

Atwell, May 3, 2020

This is too much smoke for me and not at all what I'd expect from a Highland Scotch.

Paul, May 2, 2020

Starts with sweet honey, then a bit of spice with a peaty finish. It has a nice balance without either being too bland or a peat bomb. If you are a fan of just a bit of peat but like the sweet, I would recommend.

Matt, May 2, 2020

A wonderful dram for those of us who enjoy some peat and smoke flavor. Nice complexity and layers of flavor. Compared to Islay Scotches to which it is similar, this adds a unique spiciness. Quietly enjoying a dram this brings back memories of being at sea.

Maren, May 1, 2020

Agreed, very rough on the palette and throat. Not an easy sipper

Dawn, May 1, 2020

Very rough to the palette and throat. Not an easy sipper. Wasn't bad with ginger. Shall try other mixtures to finish the bottle.

Ray, Apr 29, 2020

Like a more complex JW-black. Sweet up front with a rich smokey peat flavor in the finish. Lasts a long time.

Rob, Apr 29, 2020

Super smooth, a bit of spice on the finish.

Brendan, Apr 28, 2020

On the palate: A sort of tree fruit ester, mellow and slightly spicy, easy finish with a touch of smoke in there somewhere. Easy go-to, not too special.

Sean, Apr 28, 2020

So I've only had one glass of it and I'm by no means a connoisseur but it's making me salivate and I would happily drink this daily but I still have many more to try.

George, Apr 25, 2020

Decent flavor, but very rough. Not a favorite sipper.

Gary, Apr 25, 2020

I love how smooth it is and how the flavour starts out sweet with a hint of honey and changes to a nice smokey taste. I could see myself buying more of this one.

Michael, Apr 25, 2020

I would give it a 10 except I’ve had the 25 year

Matt, Apr 25, 2020

Ok

Glenn, Apr 24, 2020

Just a hint of smoke at first that gives way to smooth, warm notes and an easy finish. I bought this one as a shot in the dark, but it will become a permanent fixture on my bar.

Scott, Apr 23, 2020

Simple. Nothing noteworthy. Not bad but won't get again.

DANIEL, Apr 23, 2020

As a lover of smoke, this scotch really hits the mark. For me, the smokier the better. This one satisfies but is not my favorite. Very smooth with almost no burn going down. I would buy again for something different besides my go to.

Eddie, Apr 21, 2020

I like the smoky taste but I find it too strong without too much complexity. I spent time tasting different single malts and I like peaty whiskeys. Of course, I am more of a wine drinker so my palate is not used to so much alcohol at once!

Joe, Apr 20, 2020

To smokey

Steven, Apr 19, 2020

Good balance of sweet vanilla and smoke!

Dimitri, Apr 19, 2020

Not bad, but I am quite disappointed by this one. nose, which is pretty dry to me, the combination of the floral, zesty and smoky notes does not do it for me. The taste is not bad thanks to an ok balance between the honey and the bite, but the finish is very short.

Adam, Apr 18, 2020

Nice balance of sweet and peat - nicely accessible, too, at most bars. The jump to the 18 year is well worth it, though, yielding one do the best single malts out there.

Atwell, Apr 18, 2020

Too much smoke for me.

Shane, Apr 18, 2020

Great. Smooth. Easy

Greg, Apr 17, 2020

Meh, nothing wrong with it but I wanted more from it.

Jonathan, Apr 17, 2020

I really don't have a refined pallet, nor am I attempting to obtain one, so take with this a grain of salt. I've likely tried 10 or so scotches throughout all my drinking adventures, and this is the only one thus far that I'm willing to purchase again. Plus, it has viking in the name -- you can't go wrong with that, right? ...I'm pretty sure it works that way. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Wim, Apr 17, 2020

Best Scotch l’ve had

Timothy, Apr 16, 2020

It was a smooth sipper. It was heavy on the flowering wet wood aftertaste, which isn’t my typical preference. Overall, happy I tried it.

Charles, Apr 16, 2020

I really enjoyed this.

Scott, Apr 15, 2020

Very smooth, enjoyable. Has just the right amount of smoke and spice with some buttery aspects. Good purchase!

Sharon, Apr 15, 2020

Fabulous Scotch. Smooth enough to have on the rocks but enough kick for a mixed drink.

Cortland, Apr 14, 2020

I don’t drink a lot of scotch but this is great.

Joe, Apr 14, 2020

The Highland Park 12yr old has a perfect blend of peat and moss flavors I look for in a Scotch. I was surprised by it, and was able to share with fellow Spirit enthusiast. They also enjoyed the great flavors.

Miles, Apr 14, 2020

A nice, enjoyable, scotch for the right price

Clifford, Apr 12, 2020

I really enjoyed this Scotch. Was very happy with it. Nice smooth scotch.

Joe, Apr 12, 2020

This one has a kick and a punch. Strong smoky peaty flavor

Lindsay, Apr 10, 2020

It was a little rough in the beginning for me. But the more I drank the smoother the burn and taste!

Jonathan, Apr 10, 2020

Sweet start and balanced sip throughout Smokey finish. Enjoyable scotch.

Robert, Apr 10, 2020

Sweet at first and has an oaky or smoky after taste

Rene, Apr 8, 2020

Hint of honey in the beginning, followed by a strong smoky spice. Ends on an oaky note. Overall a solid scotch.

Rusty, Apr 7, 2020

Wonderful Whisky

Michael, Apr 6, 2020

Absolutely enjoying this....perfect quality/price

William, Apr 4, 2020

Very sweet and smokey aroma. At first smokeyness comes in strong but not to strong still very pleasant then almost immediately counteracted with the hunny and just before the sweetness of the hunny becomes overpowering a gentle pepper with no burn going down this drink is like a rollercoaster of flavors with no down points. It's a very solid choice

Joshua, Apr 4, 2020

a nose full of smoky honey and dry straw; a smooth, fiery alcohol burn leading to a peaty, oaky finish that lingers on the tongue and in the nose when taken straight; a little water tones down the fire and opens up a hint of leather and caramel - I think I prefer it straight

Ronald, Apr 2, 2020

I don’t like the aroma only good thing I can say is the after taste was great

John, Apr 2, 2020

A very smooth, pleasant easy sipper. I love this bottle! Just the right amount of smokiness to balance the honey and vanilla notes.

Chris, Apr 2, 2020

it was wonderfull but would like to know how to get the other 65.00 worth of my quarterly investment please

Joe, Mar 31, 2020

Not a fan of smokey bourbons or whiskeys but this one grew on you

Geoffrey, Mar 30, 2020

Makes a pleasant drink served neat. I enjoy the flavor. Don't have a refined enough palette to identify all the flavors, but a little earthy and smoky with a hint of spice. Had a pleasant burn on the finish, just the right amount for me.

David, Mar 29, 2020

A good solid scotch quite enjoyable

John, Mar 29, 2020

Good but could be better

Brady, Mar 26, 2020

Decent taste, good bite.

Cristofer, Mar 25, 2020

It was amazing I’m currently still enjoying this wonderful Craft of scotch definitely recommend it, I should have bought 2 🥴

Jason, Mar 25, 2020

I am sorry to say, the taste reminded me of an ash tray or a cheap cigar. I was not able to finish my first glass. I will not dump it and will try it again at a later date, unfortunately, for now, I give this a low rating.

Kevin, Mar 23, 2020

To be fair, this was my first Scotch Whisky. Ever. So I will always remember the Viking, even if other whiskies prove to be more fulfilling. I had no idea what to expect. I’m committed to exploring Scotch Whisky over the next few months. What else am I going to do when I am stuck at home? (Thank you to the parcel delivery services!) I don’t hate this. I don’t love it, but I don’t hate it. First taste was neat. Lots of punch. Plenty of exciting, unusual things happening in my mouth (that’s what she said). Second taste after a bite of dark chocolate. Blunted some of the punch. Third taste was on ice. I’m guessing that the interesting flavor is the smoke? I’m undecided. It’s my first time—so like other “first times,” I’m not going to write it off. Here’s to the next dram. 🥃

Andrew, Mar 22, 2020

Fantastic. Amazing tasting notes.

Bobby, Mar 22, 2020

Great smoky, smooth taste!

Robert, Mar 15, 2020

A very nice scotch. Nice earthiness with solid peat flavor. I do not remember tasting a whisky from this area in Scotland and this is very smooth with just enough complexity.

Bijan, Mar 10, 2020

It's not going to knock anybody out with wow factor, but its a perfectly drinkable scotch. Smooth with some noticeable peat and some subtler undertones giving it a sweetness in its finish. If you don't like peat you won't like this, but if you want to transition to some more peaty scotch this is not a bad way to go.

Michael, Mar 10, 2020

Like this one a lot. Smooth and lots of flavors. Aroma is wonderful too.

Matt, Mar 10, 2020

To me, Highland Park 18 is a perfect 10/10. It's a flawlessly balanced scotch. HP12 is like a junior version of that. You can tell the DNA is the same, but the younger age gives it a different character. The smooth Orkney peat is more apparent on the palate. It has an earthiness to it that turns into a light nutty, honey finish. Easily one of the best 12 year whiskies you can buy. Brilliant balance and flavor profile. Delicious always; a must-have.

Rocco, Mar 10, 2020

Not what I was expecting from a 12 year old scotch! Way better than any 12 year old scotch out there! Smooth and an excellent finish!

Kenneth, Mar 8, 2020

Not a fan, smoky through and through with a heavy peaty finish. If your a fan of the smoke and peat then this may be for you.

Kevin, Mar 1, 2020

So smooth. Flavor profile reminds me of Johnny walker blue, not as smooth but pretty damn close with a bit more flavor to it. A great scotch to always have on hand. This was my first time trying it and I’ll definitely be getting more.

Ryan, Feb 29, 2020

Sweet on the finish - smoky throughout. Good sipper.

Brianna, Feb 29, 2020

Tastes like rubbing alcohol. But it would probably be better with an older age.

Jeffrey, Feb 23, 2020

Very smooth

Joshua, Feb 21, 2020

excellent, has a nice taste too it, doesn't burn too much... not as smooth as other scotch whiskies but still great... if it was aged a little longer it would be amazing... but the value for what you get it top notch

Alan, Feb 20, 2020

Nice drop, definitely has the desirable scotch flavor on the stronger side, smooth and even on the rocks.

Lew, Feb 16, 2020

I found this to be a very decent Scotch. Though it lacked some of the sharper flavors of other single malts, I thought it was sweet and very smooth. My wife, who dislikes the deep smokiness of Talisker (which I like), loved the sweetness and smoothness of the Highland Park Viking Honor. We would definitely add it to the shopping list.

Kent, Feb 14, 2020

Was not as smooth as other 12 year old scotchs I have tried. I don't know if it was the smokey flavor that I didn't like. It was good, but not one I would buy again for my flavour palate.

Jacob, Feb 14, 2020

I have heard a lot about Viking Honor and Highland Park scotch, and I wanted to try it for myself. It was described to me as a wallet friendly scotch with great flavor and excellent finish. Viking Honor did not disappoint, and I think you would be hard pressed (for the price) to find a better single malt. As far as tasting notes, it had all the classic scotch notes, it was sweet with notes of vanilla and caramel, yet it still carried some peat and smoke, more in line with Islay and northern scotches, but not as strong. Good stuff ;)

Andrew, Feb 13, 2020

I really could not get into this one. Not a fan of the smoke and peat, but that’s just not my style. If you like smoke and peat. I think this will be for you.

Robert, Feb 12, 2020

I liked the smooth taste of this skotch. Over the rocks with a splash of water, just a nice sweet tingle of taste.

Brandon, Feb 12, 2020

Pretty smooth and a long smokey finish

Judd, Feb 12, 2020

Delightful and complex

Shawn, Feb 10, 2020

did not like this at all. do not like scotch and did not know this was scotch when i ordered it.

Matt, Feb 12, 2020

Sounds like a personal problem, and not something that should affect the review of an otherwise excellent whisky. Congrats on being unable to read and being completely unaware.

Daniel, Feb 10, 2020

Smokey, kind of bites a bit more than i'd like but very tasty.

Chris, Feb 9, 2020

Loved this scotch.

Jorge, Feb 8, 2020

Just awesome. Easy to taste and better. ENJOY IT A WHOLE BUNCH. will buy another one

Mary, Feb 8, 2020

Too peaty and smokey for me. If you enjoy a big, big smoke feel you'll like this scotch.

Pepe, Feb 8, 2020

Knock out! This is the one that closes the night.

Brian, Feb 7, 2020

Not a fan of Scotch.

Gered, Feb 7, 2020

Distinct yet mellow. Everything a quality scotch should be.

Charlotte, Feb 7, 2020

It’s got a very strong honey scent with some floral notes. It was very smooth and semi-sweet. There is lots of floral flavors. The later taste is a little bit of spice, but not overpowering. The aftertaste is very floral. I would drink this as a stand alone. It’s easy on its own!

Tom, Feb 6, 2020

Too harsh and smoky. Not smooth.

Gabriel, Feb 4, 2020

Nose: Peat, slight fermented fruit, salt. Palette: Smoke, dried fruit — apricots, faint sweet bread, slightly spicy — cinnamon (the spice level not flavor), faint orange rind, salt. — I really enjoy it!

Daman, Feb 4, 2020

For a 12 year, incredibly solid. Nice smoke. Planning to try the longer aged Highland Parks next.

Matt, Feb 4, 2020

Just wait until you try 18. One of the best ever.

MICHAEL, Feb 4, 2020

This is a nice Scotch to share with novices and experienced whisky drinkers. It has a subtle smokey flavor that appeals to both the heavy peat lovers as well as those who don't seek the peat. Definitely one to keep in your whiskey cabinet.

Brandon, Feb 3, 2020

Smooth start with a light smokey finish. Great for those just getting into scotch

Jackie, Feb 3, 2020

OMG. My first smoky scotch. Very good. Smoother than I thought it would be. Complex flavors of orange peel, honey, and campfire smoke. The next night I tried it again and it tasted like bandaids. I really like it.

Kurt, Feb 1, 2020

Solid. Enjoyable and fairly good depth of flavor. I’ll buy it again.

Benjamin, Jan 31, 2020

my "go to" scotch. wonderfully balanced, with a little more emphasis on the smoke than the sherry, but OH so delicous.

Thomas, Jan 29, 2020

Loved the smokey taste.

Gary, Jan 26, 2020

Just the right amount of smoke with honey and dried fruit notes. Good flavor, but not overpowering or too much burn.

lawrence, Jan 26, 2020

After drinking this my inner warrior came out.

Rob, Jan 24, 2020

Peaty

VICTOR, Jan 21, 2020

It has a smooth fire to it. I like the taste and feel of it. The scene on the bottle grabs you first placing you in winter in need of a fire staring at a reindeer. Peat is the fuel for your fire and it's in this bottle. The honey is upfront beside the peat and it smooths everything out for you. The other notes mentioned in the spiral, my tongue doesn't catch.

Gabe, Jan 21, 2020

I wanted to like this. But I’m not a fan of peaty scotch.

Burton, Jan 19, 2020

A solid dram that features something for everyone. A little smoke, A little fruit....tasty and worth a spot on your bar.

Prateek, Jan 15, 2020

Average nothing spl

Todd, Jan 14, 2020

You get some nice salty aroma along with some sweet honey and a touch of smoke. Taste is sweet initially, but then becomes less sweet and there is some fruit and wood coming in. I recall not being a huge fan of this initially, but I think it's grown on me some. I don't know if it needs to be a permanent fixture in the liquor shelf, but perhaps I'll buy a different Highland Park to try.

Erik, Jan 13, 2020

It does not have an overbearing taste or after taste. It is very smooth. I read review and they mentioned a strong smoky flavor, I actually thought it tasted like liquid BBQ, a sweet BBQ sauce... I like it a lot

Michael, Jan 13, 2020

This was a surprise. A bit young, but nice malty finish with some heat at the end.

Brian, Jan 12, 2020

This bottle has a strong smoky flavor, especially when drinking it neat. A bit strong for my taste that way. However, when I threw it over ice it was quite nice.

Brian, Jan 12, 2020

I like to drink scotch and bourbon neat. This drink neat has a pretty strong smoky flavor. If you like that this is a good bottle for you.

Joseph, Jan 11, 2020

Nice flavor.

Paul, Jan 11, 2020

Smooth start that develops nicely. Great bottle.

Becca, Jan 10, 2020

I loved this bottle!! Wide, intense flavors, meet subtle notes floating about... Simply a very good whiskey!!

Jake, Jan 9, 2020

Very nice. Would recommend it to anyone, has a nice light Smokey flavor that’s not over powering.

Nic, Jan 5, 2020

Simple with a nice malty chewiness to it, short on finish and complexity

Blake, Dec 31, 2019

This review is coming from a bourbon and Irish drinker. This scotch was not at all what my palette prefers. The malted barley brings about a musty, grassy sweetness aroma. The flavor offers about the same experience as the nose, save for some added fruity characteristic. The finish is short-medium. This will sit on my bar cart for the next year to a preference taster for new whiskey drinkers.

Timothy, Dec 31, 2019

Peaty but not over bearing. Adding ice (or water) definitely brings out the smoky tones. Very flavorful!

Qi, Dec 31, 2019

Peat

Paul, Dec 27, 2019

Just the right amount of smoky combined with smooth sweetness.

Andre, Dec 27, 2019

Stays with you! Huge fan!

Lori, Dec 25, 2019

A little smoky for my liking. However, I wanted to come back for more.

Justin, Dec 25, 2019

Sweet, can taste the sherry casks... as smooth of the 18 yr highland park

Conor, Dec 21, 2019

Slight smokey peaty flavor with a smooth honey-vanilla esque finish

Matt, Dec 20, 2019

Balanced with some peat and smoke, but not overpowering.

Cindy, Dec 20, 2019

This may be good scotch, but I am not a scotch fan.

Richard, Mar 22, 2020

Try dewars instead. That's more of a beginners scotch.

Bradford, Dec 20, 2019

Too much campfire taste for me

Richard, Dec 19, 2019

Very tasty would definitely buy again.

Denise, Dec 13, 2019

Too smoky for my taste.

Sadie, Dec 1, 2019

I’m new to scotch and it seemed odd to me at first because I typically have Rye or Bourbon but it’s growing on me. Great caramel and smoky flavor but not overboard Update: I can’t get enough of this stuff for a scotch that doesn’t break the bank. Great everyday drinker

Chandler, Nov 27, 2019

Not a huge fan of the smoke flavored scotches, but this had a perfect fruity flavor that lead into a nice and mellow smokey aftertaste. Was very easy to start sipping quite a bit of it in one sitting.

Richard, Nov 25, 2019

Perfect amount of smoke, once you get past that there's chocolate-y goodness underneath. One of my favorites.

Alex, Nov 25, 2019

so first you get the smoke then the honey then other flavors that defy description, all in all good.

James, Nov 23, 2019

Smoky as all get out, amazing for sipping

Brandon, Nov 22, 2019

Definitely could tast the barrel, not sure if its oak, i dont just go around tasting trees. Hell of a bite, it was nice having something different.

Robert, Nov 15, 2019

Definitely peat on the nose. Nice amber color. Sweet taste of honey on first sip with a slight peat aftertaste. Adding a few drops of water really intensified both the aroma and taste. Nice burn to warm you up.

tapani, Nov 14, 2019

Aivan huippu hyvää!!

Robert, Nov 14, 2019

Liked it very much. I don't mind a little peat and did not feel this one was peaty at all. Certainly no iodine. Found it quite balanced with sweetness prominent and fruity notes. To me a rich scotch. Those I shared it with also were impressed, except one or two who I guess prefer true Speysides that have no hint of smoke whatsoever. Me, I like a little complexity.

Erin, Nov 13, 2019

The smell is great, but too much bite

Regan, Nov 11, 2019

If you love smoky, you'll love this. A little stronger smoke than we typically enjoy, but nice and smooth, otherwise.

Joseph, Nov 10, 2019

Had a balanced peaty flavor that isn’t overpowering with honey notes. The finish was smooth and long with fruity flavors – to me, primarily raspberry and peach. – I enjoy the complexity and journey it brings to my palate. If you have a hard time appreciating this drink, you probably just don't like Scotch.

Jared, Nov 9, 2019

Loved it the finish was not to spicyAnd overall a very smooth flavor

Robert, Nov 9, 2019

Strong and hits all the marks! An outstanding welcome gift and one we will revisit again in the future.

Andrew, Nov 9, 2019

Strong start for a 12 year but a smooth Smokey finish

Bruce, Nov 7, 2019

A very drinkable single malt. It had a nice touch of smoke on the finish. I will definitely get another.

Niobe, Nov 5, 2019

strong spicy gruff in the best way

John, Nov 4, 2019

Big fan

JOHN, Nov 3, 2019

Nice smoke but a little peaty v smokey. Deeper Scotch flavars. Nice nose and smooth finish.

Carlos, Nov 2, 2019

I was expecting a more subtle taste! I found it bitter and cheap tasting!

Brenton, Nov 1, 2019

Another success from Highland Park. They never disappoint me.

Casandra, Oct 30, 2019

This is a wonderful strong Whisky. For me it starts with a light sweet flavor and finishes with a nice smoky flavor.

Jerome, Oct 30, 2019

Very complex, take time to experience, a broad spectrum of flavors. One of my favorites.

Tonia, Oct 29, 2019

Fairly sweet, couldn't really get the spiced fruitcake. Harsh ending.

Daniel, Oct 29, 2019

This was almost undrinkable. Harsh on the throat, almost like it was more of a fuel than drinking whiskey.

Jerry, Oct 29, 2019

Absolutely did not like this scotch. Not smooth or pleasant There are cheap blends that are much better than this scotch.

Joseph, Oct 29, 2019

A solid peated single malt scotch. With a bit of ice taking the smoke off, it comes off well across the taste buds with just a hint of spicy. Reasonably priced for the quality offered. Would recommend as an option for moderate valued bar looking to have peat bottle available to offer.

Julie, Oct 29, 2019

A bit too much peat taste for my liking.

Al, Oct 28, 2019

Eh, it’s a standard bottle.

Michael, Oct 25, 2019

A little too smoky for my tatse, but overall it had a great nose, coloring and taste.

Alexandra, Oct 23, 2019

Woodsy and smooth

Gene, Oct 21, 2019

I'm not a huge fan of peat smoke and have never bought a Highland Park for that very reason. However, I did enjoy this whiskey. Beyond the smoke there is actually a nicely complex dram that keeps inviting you back for another sip. For my taste buds, had it not been for the smoke I would have rated this a 7 instead of a 6, I'm sure other folks would rate it higher.

John, Oct 19, 2019

Smooth

Michael, Oct 17, 2019

Smooth and a relatively short light finish. For me the thing that held it back for me was the light peatiness.

Paul, Oct 17, 2019

A good amount of smokiness with a sweet honey aftertaste. Nice.

Richard, Oct 15, 2019

I’m new to the scotch scene so my descriptors are not as refined. After a dram of the highland, it coats the mouth and tongue. (Oily feel as I have read). It has a nice malty fruit taste that ends with a taste as though you just enjoyed a smooth Cuban cigar. I will definitely be getting another bottle.

Joshua, Oct 13, 2019

This was my first single malt scotch and though the smell was faint, I definitely was not prepared for the strong smokey flavor right off the bat. After a few sips and getting a helping of that smooth honey aftertaste, I was able to enjoy the overall experience.

Chris, Oct 10, 2019

A little thin. Smoke is nice and subtle but not very complex.

Rex, Oct 10, 2019

Fruity on the nose. After taste of oak. Not too harsh on the tongue.

Quintino, Oct 9, 2019

This is one of my go-to Scotches. Light peat, sweet honey and a smooth aftertaste. I give this to anyone of my friends that say they want to try a "peated" whiskey.

Kuotian, Oct 8, 2019

This is a great whisky. It has a very distinct rich smell of sherry oak a lot like that of a McCallen 12. The taste is rich and sweet like honey. Full bodied and flavorful. I can smell a bit more smokyness by adding a bit more water, but it doesn't taste like it is peated as is. The after taste is savory and pleasant. This is not a whisky for people who like smokey or peated stuff. It is for people who want a McCallan with more flavor and depth. If McCallen 12 is that highschool sweetheart, this is she after 2 years of squatting session. A nice bottle overall.

Bryan, Oct 5, 2019

Very Smokey but smooth it is a great pairing with my steak and potatoes

Eric, Oct 5, 2019

Delicious. Mostly smooth with a nice fruity smell.

Kevin, Oct 5, 2019

This 12 year old whisky was light and smooth with a smokey flavor. Not a scotch fan but this is pretty nice! Grows on you overtime.

John, Oct 3, 2019

I'm on the fence with this one. I love my Chevis for the reason it is smooth and doesn't have the heavy smokey taste. That being said my first savoring of the Highland Park I was reminded of the strong scotch aroma and was a little overwhelmed by it. The second night I decided to try again and after overlooking the aroma I was quite pleased with how smooth it was going down. I will have to sample it some more and I am looking forward to be able to get back home and try some other labels with my first tasting box that arrived after I left to go to work. captjlm.

James, Oct 3, 2019

A terrific blend of peat and fruit. Wonderful dram.

Devon, Oct 1, 2019

Great bottle. Smooth nose, full body with great flavor, nice burn all the way down.

John, Oct 1, 2019

Very smooth and enjoyable with little after taste or bite. Nice taste of peaty smoke.

Simonas, Oct 1, 2019

Quite a smooth and fruity whisky, with a peaty smoke and a nice finish

Kevin, Oct 1, 2019

I’m a fan of Islay whisky and peaty Scotch, but I think there are better options than Highland Park 12. It’s ABV is low for me at 43% and I’m not in love with the aftertaste has a hint of grapefruit and heavy on oak flavor. I’d choose other brands like Ardbeg, Lagavulin, or Laphroaig — in that order. This may be good for people who want a lighter peated whisky. I enjoy it, but don’t love it.

Devon, Oct 1, 2019

Nice and smooth and a great value

George, Sep 27, 2019

Wow!!! Amazing value

Andrew, Sep 25, 2019

One of the great whiskey s for its price range!

Ryan, Sep 25, 2019

Floral sweetness on the nose and palate. Not a fan.

Jonathan, Sep 24, 2019

I personally love smoke and peat in scotch. That being said I actually found this to be a bit on lighter end when it came to the peat whiskys. I tasted Sherry, Citrus, honey and leather. For the price, fantastic.

Lucas, Sep 24, 2019

If you’re a fan of peat you will probably enjoy this one. Not for me. By no means undrinkable, just not gonna finish this bottle anytime soon.

CHAD, Sep 24, 2019

I always enjoy a good Scotch. Unfortunately, this is not one of them. The smokiness is harsh and overpowering, almost imitation tasting. The actual flavor is thin and watered down. Overall, the worst I've had.

Michael, Sep 22, 2019

Good scotch, classic. It was exactly what I wanted it to be.

Sachin, Sep 21, 2019

This whiskey was not my cup of tea. Not smooth at all

Shannon, Sep 21, 2019

Smooooooookey

Gary, Sep 20, 2019

A little too smoky for my taste, but still gos down easy enough

David, Sep 19, 2019

admittedly I am more of a bourbon fan than scotch but this stuff just tasted nasty. The peaty flavor is overwhelming. Tasted like I was drinking runoff from a garden

Edwin, Sep 19, 2019

It was a good scotch that went well at a party I hosted. It wasn't as different from normal Highland Park to make it anything that I would pay extra for, though.

Sebastian, Sep 19, 2019

I am not a big fan of scotch whiskeys, but I was pleasantly surprised with the smoothness and subtlety of the flavors. Usually the sweetness of scotch ruins it, but there was enough heat and flavor to combat the sweetness and keep me sipping.

Richard, Sep 17, 2019

gorgious

Thomas, Sep 17, 2019

A little too peaty for me.

Brandon, Sep 17, 2019

Not so rough going in, but a very long lasting smokey aftertaste

Andrew, Sep 16, 2019

Smokey

Trevor, Sep 16, 2019

Smoky but not overpowering

Michael, Sep 11, 2019

excessively smokey, almost ashy aftertaste. Unfortunately, i'll be passing on this scotch next time.

Harlan, Sep 11, 2019

I thought this was one of the smoother brands I have tried. Smooth finish along with a light peaty and smokey flavor.

Brandon, Sep 10, 2019

If you look smokiness, this is the bottle for you. Light and full of flavor. Easy to sip on.

Ted, Sep 7, 2019

Not a bad scotch. Not too much peaty or smokiness, and rather smooth finish.

David, Sep 5, 2019

Smooth but a bit hard after the taste.

Carlos, Aug 24, 2019

Smooth, crisp, well balanced

Jeramy, Aug 23, 2019

Nothing wrong with this. Light honey with a feint smoke to it. Delicious

Mark, Aug 22, 2019

First taste was hot, but the the drink settled. Nice flavor, no smoke.

Mark, Aug 26, 2019

On a second night the flavor settled in and became very easy to drink. Could be an addition to my regular rotation of scotch.

Noel, Aug 19, 2019

Very light and grassy. Really enjoyed this scotch.

Lance, Aug 19, 2019

Smoky and aromatic with a touch of peat. Seems like it pair nicely with a fruit tart or lemon cake. Very enjoyable.

Gary, Aug 8, 2019

Excellent highland scotch. A little Smokey but not to much. Very easy drinker. A next step for those new to scotch whiskey and one of my favorites.

Glenn, Aug 2, 2019

Smokey, not peated. Carressment for the tongue.

guest, Jul 26, 2019

Floral with honey Smoky but not strong

Bradley, Jun 24, 2019

Fine representative of what a single malt scotch is all about.

guest, Jun 20, 2019

Smoky vanilla with a warm sherry finish

guest, Jun 7, 2019

Great scotch. Nice and smoky, yet smooth

Derek, May 26, 2019

Proof that a smoky scotch can somehow have a buttery undertone. I keep this stocked on the shelf.

Isaac, May 25, 2019

Absolutely amazing, definitely will open your nostrils as your about to sip, amazing aroma and real smooth with an ending that kicks. Highly recommend and will definitely buy again.

Adam, May 19, 2019

Smoke and pepper was all i got. Mediocre at best. Not a good addition to the highland park line.

Loren, Apr 24, 2019

Excellent flavor, but it doesn’t linger.

Antonio, Feb 27, 2019

Good

Shaun, Feb 23, 2019

At the price point HP 12 cannot be beat. It really is the every night drink for me. The mix of smoke and toffee flavor is wonderful to me.

TYLER, Feb 10, 2019

I haven't done many single malts I've have more blended scotch, but this was an amazing one it had its smokey hit but not too harsh and the honey did well to keep it smooth and gave it a nice calm sweetness to it.

Catharine, Feb 6, 2019

Smooth, well balanced, exceptional nose. Slightly sweet on the finish. Exceptional scotch.

Alex, Jan 15, 2019

Very nice finish. Perfect amount of smoke and wood notes. Classic

Jasson, Jan 3, 2019

A good dram, most notable (I think) for its finish - which is outstanding. Very expensive compared to other similar single-malts, though. Don't think I'll ever buy another bottle.

James, Jul 17, 2019

Life is too short to drink cheap whiskey.