Highland Park – Valkyrie (70cl, 45.9%)

Valkyrie is a single malt from Highland Park on Orkney, bottled at 45.9% in a 70cl bottle. It is the first of three releases inspired by Viking legend, named for the figures of Norse myth who chose which fallen warriors would join Odin's army. The whisky was matured in first-fill sherry casks of American oak and in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks of Spanish oak, with a selection of refill casks added. It shows clear Orkney character alongside the honey sweetness found in the distillery's 12 Year Old. The nose offers crisp green apples, exotic spices and crackling campfire smoke. The palate brings oriental spices and creamy vanilla, sweet crystallised ginger, dark chocolate and a touch of liquorice.