The Octave range is where the finest whiskies have a final maturation in reconstructed ex sherry octave casks, the spirit is invigorated by the increased wood contact in the smaller casks, bringing you a spectacular dram.
The Highland Park 2004 Premium Octave cask #5037889 has aged for 18 years in oak casks then spent the final months in an octave cask. This is a limited release of only 88 bottles. This is a single cask, bottled at cask strength, not chill-filtered or coloured.
For many years, Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky Limited has experimented in the use of differing cask sizes for the maturation of single malt and single grain scotch whiskies. This research stemmed from the simple premise that there is more interaction between the wood and spirit over a shorter period of time in a small cask than in a large cask, allowing a faster melding of wood, air and alcohol. The spirit in this bottle is an exclusive example of good whisky taken beyond all expectations to become rich, complex and wise beyond its years; it has been 'Octave Invigorated'
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Tasting Notes
Colour: Full gold
Nose: Elegant and leafy. A damp forest floor. Soft, sweet pipe tobacco and dark chocolate covered fruits. Some hints of fresh leather, balanced by a gentle mineral and maritime note. Intriguing and enticing.
Palate: Thick, full and mouth coating. Note over sweet, but not bitter. Meaty with some spice, peppery pencil shavings. The fruits of the palate are a little darker with figs and prunes. The chocolate of the nose shades to milky coffee. all very elegant and refined.
Finish: Good length. The earthiness remains with just a whiff of grass smoke and soot. The spicy initial attack on the palate and is replaced by a warmer honey tone. Clean and well balanced, a very rewarding dram.