Celebrated whisky producer Highland Park has released a rare 54-Year-Old whisky to celebrate its 225th anniversary. With only 225 bottles globally, one for every year of the Orkney-based distillery’s history, this exceptionally rare single malt Scotch Whisky has been nurtured through careful maturation and harmonisation, representing a quarter of Highland Park’s life.
Born and crafted in the heart of Orkney by master whisky maker Gordon Motion, the 54-Year-Old is the brand’s oldest-ever release to date. Originally distilled in 1968, a magical year for Highland Park, it is the result of combining four refill butts and six refill hogsheads in February 2008 that were then transferred into first-fill European sherry butts, where it matured for an additional 14 years and acquired its distinctive deep hue and intensity. The aged whisky yields a well-balanced and intricate taste profile that is inspired by the Orkney Islands’ diverse characteristics, making it a true reflection of its place of origin.
Designed by award-winning craftsperson John Galvin, the 54-Year-Old is a work of art that showcases the brand’s unparalleled expertise in both flavour and packaging. The presentation oak box embodies Orkney’s unique contours, elevation, and terrain, as well as the weathered layers and strata of the Yesnaby cliffs. The fluidity of its central fissure and aperture opens to reveal a stunning bottle designed by Michael Rudak from Stoelzle Flaconnage which allows the deep, natural colour of the limited edition 54 Year Old to radiate from within. The textured glass decanter draws inspiration from the ancient monoliths of the Ring of Brodgar and the texture of the Yesnaby cliffs.
For the launch, Highland Park has also partnered with Bonhams Auction to offer one of the 225 bottles of the 54-Year-Old for sale on 18 May 2023, with all net proceeds donated to Save The Children Fund. The winning bidder will also receive a unique experience in Orkney, the home of Highland Park, with flights included.
In addition, to commemorate the occasion, Highland Park’s senior global brand ambassador Martin Markvardsen has teamed up with renowned chef Silas Li and the esteemed restaurant Hong Kong Cuisine 1983 to create a unique menu in which each course is fused and paired with Highland Park’s whisky, ranging from 18 to 40 years old.
