Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:42 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.
Explore the distinctions between Highland Park 12 and Laphroaig 10 in this comprehensive comparison to help you decide which Single Malt suits your taste!
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 Laphroaig 10: Comparison
Highland Park 12: A smooth, gently peated whisky with floral, honey, and orange notes on the nose, leading to a balanced palate of cereal, green tea, and subtle smoke. The finish is long with oak and pepper. Ideal for newcomers to peaty whisky or those who prefer a milder smoky flavor.
Laphroaig 10: Known for its bold, smoky character with caramel and oak on the nose, and a palate rich in charred oak, chocolate, and iodine. The finish is smoky and sweet. Perfect for seasoned whisky enthusiasts who love a strong peated flavor.
Verdict: Highland Park 12 offers a more accessible peat experience with its gentle smoke and balanced flavors, while Laphroaig 10 caters to those seeking a bold, unmistakable Islay peatiness, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Smoky Scotch Top Choices
Highland Park 12: A Gently Smoky Single 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: Dalmore 12
Highland Park 12 offers a gentle introduction to the world of peaty whiskies.
Aromatic Delights:
- The nose greets you with a delightful mix of floral notes, citrus zest, and sweet honey.
Balanced Flavors:
- The palate experiences a smooth and predominantly sweet taste with hints of cereal, orange, and green tea.
- Subtle smokiness, iodine, and honey add depth to the flavor profile.
Light and Enjoyable:
- While the body might feel a bit light, it remains smooth and pleasant.
- The moderately sweet finish offers a touch of spice and oaky notes.
Unlocking More:
- Adding a few drops of water enhances the sweetness and reveals meaty notes, adding another dimension to the experience.
Who Should Try It:
- If you’re new to peaty whiskies, Highland Park 12’s subtle smokiness makes it a great entry point.
- Seasoned drinkers may find it less complex than Islay expressions.
Overall:
- This well-crafted and affordable whisky is a reliable choice for anyone seeking a gently peated and approachable single malt.
Highland Park 12 Facts:
- Aged in ex-sherry casks for added complexity.
- Naturally colored for a rich amber hue.
- From Orkney Islands, Scotland’s northernmost distillery (established 1798).
Laphroaig 10: A Bold and Smoky Islay Single Malt
- Nose: Smoke, caramel, oak, coffee
- Palate: Charred oak, smoke, chocolate, honey, iodine
- Finish: Smoke, caramel
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Laphroaig Select
Laphroaig 10 is a single malt whisky known for its distinctly smoky flavor. This bold characteristic makes it a favorite among experienced whisky drinkers, but it can also be unexpected for newcomers.
Exploring Laphroaig 10:
- Aroma: Hints of smoke, seaweed, and caramel mingle together, creating a unique and intriguing scent.
- Taste: The first sip delivers a burst of smoke and oak, followed by a touch of sweetness from vanilla, caramel, and chocolate.
- Finish: The long-lasting finish is predominantly sweet with a subtle mineral character and hints of seaweed.
A Unique Experience:
While Laphroaig 10’s smoky profile may take some getting used to, it’s precisely what makes it so distinctive and enjoyable for many whisky enthusiasts.
Award-Winning Whisky:
- Aged for 10 years in bourbon and sherry casks for added complexity.
- Awarded a gold medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Named Best Single Malt Scotch 10 Years & Under in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2019.
Ready to explore the world of smoky whiskies? Laphroaig 10 might be your perfect match.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Highland Park 12 | $64 |
| Highland Park 12 | $60 |