Highland Ridge Distillery has officially announced the upcoming release of its much-anticipated Heritage Reserve Single Malt Scotch, an 18-year-old expression set to launch on October 26th. This limited-edition bottling is poised to captivate whisky enthusiasts with its distinctive profile, born from prolonged maturation and a meticulous finishing process.
The Craft Behind Heritage Reserve
Rooted in a legacy dating back to 1892, Highland Ridge Distillery maintains a steadfast commitment to traditional Speyside whisky-making. The Heritage Reserve is a testament to this enduring philosophy. Its journey begins with traditional floor malting, a labor-intensive process that contributes a distinct character to the grain. Distillation takes place in time-honored copper pot stills, employing a slow method designed to enhance complexity and purity. The spirit then matures for eighteen years in ex-Bourbon barrels, allowing it to develop a rich foundation of vanilla and subtle oak. The expression’s unique depth is further cultivated during a finishing period in hand-selected Oloroso Sherry butts, imbuing it with layers of fruit and spice that are a hallmark of expertly managed wood influence. This dedication to process underscores the heritage intrinsic to every drop.
Unveiling the Liquid: Tasting Profile
The Heritage Reserve presents a sensory journey, beginning with an inviting nose of rich dried fruits, notably fig and raisin, interwoven with dark chocolate and bright hints of orange zest, all underpinned by a delicate whisper of oak spice. On the palate, a velvety smooth texture precedes an opulent unfolding of flavors. Layers of sweet fig, caramel, and further raisin notes are met by a warming presence of ginger, culminating in a sophisticated suggestion of tobacco leaf. The finish is notably long and lingering, a harmonious confluence of the sweet sherry influence and gentle, persistent spice, concluding with a gratifying echo of dark cocoa. This intricate balance speaks volumes of the liquid’s sophisticated evolution over nearly two decades.
With an anticipated MSRP of $199.99, the Heritage Reserve Single Malt Scotch will be available through select retailers worldwide. Its limited nature is expected to generate significant interest among collectors and connoisseurs eager to experience a whisky that embodies both historical craftsmanship and exceptional flavor development.
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