Highland Park: A Viking Legacy
Perched on the remote Orkney Islands, Highland Park is Scotland’s most northerly distillery, a distinction that plays a key role in shaping its whiskies’ distinctive character.
Founded in 1798, the distillery has spent over two centuries perfecting its craft, producing whisky influenced by the island’s unique climate, traditional methods, and distinctive peating process.
Highland Park’s use of locally cut Orkney peat, which is richer in heather compared to mainland peat, lends a delicate smokiness to its whiskies, perfectly balanced by sherried sweetness from its carefully selected oak casks. This signature style has made Highland Park one of the most celebrated and collectable Scotch whisky brands worldwide.
Orkney has strong Norse heritage, and Highland Park embraces this history with Viking-inspired branding, including expressions like Thor, Loki, and Odin in its Valhalla Collection.
Hansons’ latest sale presents an exciting opportunity to acquire some exceptionally rare Highland Park expressions
Auction Highlights
Among the standout lots in the auction are several Highland Park distillations from the 1970s, matured and bottled in the 1990s, each offering a glimpse into the evolution of the distillery’s style over the decades of maturation.
🔹 Highland Park 25 Year Old (1990s) – Estimate: £400-£650
A beautifully aged expression from the 1990s, this 25-year-old Highland Park showcases deep sherried complexity, oak richness, and the signature Orkney peat smoke.
🔹 Highland Park 1977 Bicentenary – Estimate: £200-£350
Released to mark the distillery’s 200th anniversary, this commemorative bottling is a piece of history in itself. A well-matured and increasingly scarce whisky, it is a must-have for Highland Park collectors.
🔹 Highland Park 1974 Online Tasting – Estimate: £800-£1,400
One of the most sought-after lots in the auction, this 1974 vintage is a rare example of Highland Park’s older stock. With nearly a quarter of a century of maturation, it promises remarkable depth and character.
🔹 Highland Park 12 Year Old (1990s) – Estimate: £60-£100
A fantastic example of Highland Park’s classic 12-year-old expression from the 1990s, this bottle is an excellent entry point for collectors or those looking to experience a piece of whisky history without breaking the bank.
🔹 Highland Park 18 Year Old (1990s) – Estimate: £200-£300
Aged to perfection, this 18-year-old Highland Park from the 1990s is widely regarded as one of the distillery’s finest expressions. Bottled at a time when the brand was gaining global recognition, this whisky is a testament to Highland Park’s commitment to quality.
A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
With demand for collectable whisky continuing to rise, Highland Park remains one of the most respected names in the world of fine spirits. Older bottlings, in particular, are increasingly difficult to source, making this auction a rare opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to acquire some truly special pieces.
“We’re delighted to present such an exciting selection of Highland Park whiskies in our upcoming sale,” says Stuart Palmer, Head of Wine, Whisky & Spirits at Hansons Auctioneers. “From vintage rarities to well-aged classics, there’s something here for both dedicated collectors and those new to whisky investment. With Highland Park’s reputation for quality and provenance, we expect strong interest in these bottles.”
The full auction catalogue is now live online, with bidding set to take place on 25th February at 1pm. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply a lover of fine whisky, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Auction Information
Auction: Etwall February Wine, Whisky & Spirits Auction
Auction date: 25th February 2025 | 1pm
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
