Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:29 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Highland Park 12 vs Highland Park 18 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whisky is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Highland Park 12 vs Highland Park 18: Comparison
Highland Park 12: Floral and smoky nose with a palate of cereal, orange, and gentle smoke, finishing with oak and pepper. A balanced, light introduction to peat.
Highland Park 18: Rich aroma of smoke and oak, with a complex palate of citrus, cinnamon, and chocolate, and a lingering finish of oak spice and smoke. A deeper, more intricate experience.
Verdict: Both Highland Park 12 and Highland Park 18 demonstrate the distillery’s skill in balancing smoke with sweetness, each offering a distinct journey through the realms of flavor and complexity. The 12-year-old serves as a welcoming introduction to the world of peated whiskies, while the 18-year-old presents a profound exploration with depth and character, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Each dram offers a unique experience, catering to both newcomers and connoisseurs seeking refinement and complexity in their whisky.
Related: Best Highland Park Whisky Picks
Highland Park 12: Unveiling Subtle Smokiness in a Gentle Malt
- Nose: Floral, smoke, orange, honey
- Palate: Cereal, orange, green tea, smoke
- Finish: Long, oak, pepper
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberlour 12
Highland Park 12 invites you with a soft aroma: think blooming flowers, citrus zest, and a touch of honey, laced with a hint of smoke.
On the palate, it’s smooth and light-bodied, offering notes of sweet honey and sea salt-tinged iodine, alongside a delicate smokiness. The finish is short and sweet, punctuated by a touch of peppery warmth and oak.
Is it good? Opinions may vary. While balanced and smooth, it can feel a bit thin for some. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Sweet & Smoky: Bridges the gap between peaty Islay whiskies and the sweeter Speyside malts.
- Beginner-Friendly: A gentle introduction to peaty flavors before diving into bolder options.
- Water Enhances: A few drops unlock more sweetness and savory notes.
Highland Park 12 Facts:
- 12-year journey: Aged in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks, adding unique character.
- Naturally Uncolored: True to its essence.
Ready to explore Highland Park 12? Remember, taste is subjective. Embrace its gentle smokiness and sweetness, especially with a dash of water. And if you crave bolder peaty experiences, this might be a stepping stone to your next drams!
Highland Park 18: A Walk Through Complexity, But is it the Peak?
- Nose: Smoke, oak, floral
- Palate: Citrus, cinnamon, chocolate, honey, smoke
- Finish: Long, oak spice, smoke, chocolate
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Lagavulin 16
Highland Park 18 isn’t just any whisky; it’s a symphony of flavors crowned “Best Spirit in the World” by F. Paul Pacult. But will it win your palate’s vote?
Imagine: A captivating aroma of citrus zest, warm cinnamon, rich chocolate, and sweet honey. This sets the stage for a sip that unfolds with depth and balance.
On the palate, complexity reigns. Citrusy brightness blends with warming spices, while chocolate notes offer richness. A moderate smokiness adds intrigue, never overpowering the harmony.
The finish lingers with bitter chocolate, a touch of warmth, and lingering spice. It’s an engaging experience, perfect for savoring.
Is it for you?
Opinions vary with this well-respected dram. While praised for its nuanced profile, some find it slightly dry and oaky, lacking the “sublime” factor.
Highland Park 18 Facts:
- 18-year journey: Crafted with European and American oak, seasoned with Oloroso sherry in Spain.
- Award-winning: “Best Spirit in the World” and Chairman’s Trophy winner.
- Oloroso influence: This dry sherry adds unique depth and sweetness.
Ready to explore the intricate world of Highland Park 18? Remember, taste is subjective, so trust your palate and let this dram reveal its secrets to you.
Price Comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Highland Park Whisky | Price |
| 12 Year | $54 |
| 18 Year | $160 |