Crafted with precision and steeped in Nordic legend, Highland Park Valknut Single Malt Scotch Whisky is an ode to Orkney's Viking ancestry. This 46.8% ABV masterpiece, the second release in the acclaimed Viking Legend series, showcases a rich blend of local peated malt and Orkney-grown Tartan barley, delivering a smokier profile than its predecessor, Valkyrie. Predominantly matured in sherry-seasoned American oak casks, it boasts a complex flavor profile of aromatic peat smoke, sweet vanilla, toasted barley, and hints of cloves, aniseed, and citrus. The Valknut symbol, meaning "knot of those slain in battle," adorns its bold packaging, designed by renowned Danish artist Jim Lyngvild, adding a historic touch to its powerful, smoky finish. A Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco Spirits Competition, Valknut is a must-have for whisky connoisseurs seeking a taste of Viking legend.
Process & Profile
Highland Park Valknut is crafted using a higher proportion of local Orkney peat, which imparts a distinctive sweet and aromatic smoke to its malt. The barley is hand-turned on the distillery's traditional floor maltings, a time-honored method that ensures depth of flavor. The whisky is predominantly matured in sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks, combined with ex-bourbon casks, creating a rich profile with natural colors and layers of complexity. At 46.8% ABV, Valknut is unchill-filtered, preserving its true character and bold taste.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Aromas of salty sea breeze, honeyed sweetness, vanilla, and a hint of heather peat smoke are complemented by maritime notes.
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Palate: Sweet vanilla mingles with the distinctive Highland Park peat smoke. Additional notes of cracked black pepper, cloves, citrus, and creamy oak create a balance between spicy and sweet.
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Finish: Medium, creamy, and smoky with an evolving sweetness and hints of dried fruit and aniseed.
What Makes It Special
Highland Park Valknut stands as a tribute to Viking heritage, with its name meaning "knot of those slain in battle." The symbol of interlinked triangles, associated with the Norse god Odin, embodies the transition between earthly and heavenly realms. Its design, created by Danish artist Jim Lyngvild, further cements Valknut as both a cultural artifact and a premium whisky. The use of Orkney's heather peat, traditional malting, and careful maturation in sherry-seasoned casks ensures a whisky unlike any other—rich, smoky, and deeply connected to its origins.
How to Enjoy
Enjoy Highland Park Valknut neat or with a splash of water to unlock its complex layers of flavor. For a fuller experience, pair it with smoked meats, dark chocolate, or aged cheeses to enhance its smoky and sweet profile. Whether sipped in solitary reflection or shared among friends, Valknut delivers a journey into the world of Norse-inspired mastery.
Highland Park Valknut is more than a whisky; it's a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and flavor woven into every drop. Add this award-winning expression to your collection and savor the legendary taste that bridges the past and the present.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Highland Park Valknut?
Valknut is a single malt Scotch whisky from Highland Park, part of their Viking Legend series. It features a higher proportion of Orkney-grown peated malt and is predominantly matured in sherry-seasoned oak casks. The whisky offers a smoky, sweet flavor profile with notes of toasted vanilla, cloves, and aromatic peat smoke.
What does "Valknut" mean?
The name "Valknut" translates to "knot of those slain in battle." This symbol, composed of three interlinked triangles, is deeply rooted in Norse mythology and is associated with the transition from earthly life to heavenly life. It plays a key thematic role in the Viking Legend series.
What are the tasting notes for Highland Park Valknut?
- **Nose**: Aromatic peat smoke with fresh vanilla, thyme honey, and sandalwood.
- **Palate**: Toasted barley, fennel seed, cinnamon, and sweet cloves.
- **Finish**: Flamed orange peel, gingerbread, nutmeg, and a light BBQ char.
What is the alcohol content of Highland Park Valknut?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of this whisky is 46.8%, making it a bold and flavorful expression.
What makes Highland Park Valknut unique?
Highland Park Valknut stands out for its use of Orkney heather peat, hand-turned floor maltings, and maturation in sherry-seasoned oak casks, creating a complex balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. Its Viking-inspired packaging, designed by Danish artist Jim Lyngvild, adds to its distinctiveness.
Is Highland Park Valknut a limited edition?
Yes, Valknut is the second release in Highland Park's Viking Legend series, following the Valkyrie expression. These releases are limited and celebrate the brand's Nordic heritage.
How should Highland Park Valknut be enjoyed?
It can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavors. Its smoky and sweet profile also pairs well with rich foods like roasted meats or dark chocolate.
What awards has Highland Park Valknut won?
It received a Double Gold Medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, solidifying its reputation as a high-quality single malt Scotch whisky.
Where is Highland Park Valknut made?
It is produced at the Highland Park Distillery in Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, the northernmost distillery in the country with a history dating back to 1798.
Does Highland Park Valknut contain added coloring?
No, the whisky has a natural cask-driven color, achieved through its maturation in sherry-seasoned oak casks, without any additives.
What sizes are available for Highland Park Valknut?
The standard bottle size for Highland Park Valknut is 700ml. Availability may vary depending on your location.