Highland Park announced the release of a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky. FIRE Edition is a special bottling that delves into the world of classic Norse mythology and celebrates the Viking roots of Highland Park’s Orkney islands home. Matured exclusively in 100% refill Port wine casks, FIRE Edition follows the release of ICE Edition which was awarded 99/100 and the Chairman’s Trophy in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2016. FIRE Edition completes the two-part series inspired by the stories of the Ice and Fire Giants and their battles against the Gods to rule the world.
Jason R. Craig, Global Brand Director, commented: “Maturing our distinctive whisky in 100% refill Port wine seasoned casks is a first for Highland Park and the result is a vibrant, 15-year-old single malt with an ABV of 45.2%. FIRE Edition has a slight reddish hue, (which is its natural color), intense aromas of ruby red fruits, light smoke and a long, lingering finish. However, it is still, unmistakably, Highland Park.”
The bespoke crimson red colored glass was specially commissioned to represent the fierce and molten world of the Fire Giants from Viking mythology. The bottle is encased in a distinctive black wooden cradle with accompanying black wooden stopper. A booklet, also included with the bottle, recounts the story of the realm of the Fire Giants and their epic battle against the Gods to rule the world.
According to Viking legends, Surtr was an evil Fire Giant who ruled the Fire Realm. He would sit at the edge of the kingdom, defending the land by holding a burning sword, which shone brighter and hotter than the sun. The culmination of these tales is an apocalyptic battle between the Gods and the Giants. Surtr led the sons of Muspell across the bridge of Bifröst, burning everything in sight at Asgard (realm of Gods; Thor, Loki, Freya and Odin) and destroying the world at Ragnarök, heralded as ‘The doom of the Gods.’ The world perished in a blazing and burnishing ball of flames and from the ashes, a new earth was recreated.
FIRE Edition, a special release of 28,000 bottles globally with 4,398 bottles in the US, will be available from specialty spirits retailers in the US beginning in December 2016 with a suggested retail of $300.
Tasting Notes: Highland Park FIRE Edition / 15 year old / 45.2% ABV
Color: 100% natural. Dark glowing amber.
Nose: Intense with stone fruit, vanilla and baking spice.
Palate: Lightly smoked Christmas cake. Notes of candied citrus peel, dried plums and vanilla.
Finish: Rich and lingering. Sweet vanilla ending with fruity spiciness.
I had a taste side by side to the New Make and the 12 Year Old. Interesting to compare them side by side
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