Highland Park Sydäntalvi 15YO Single Cask review

Sydäntalvi is a 15 year old single cask Highland Park distilled in 2001, bottled in 2017 for the Finnish retail market. Since their first single cask release for Finnish retail market in 2016, Highland Park has continued to launch new ones because of their success. The first four releases, including this one, were made specially for Finland’s 100 years of independence anniversary year.

Aged in American oak sherry butt, this single cask greatness was drawn from cask number 2155 and bottled at respectable 61,3% ABV. Only 576 bottles were released.

Other Highland Park single cask releases for Finland:

1st release (2016): SMWS & VYS (Bottled for Whisky Clubs of Finland)
2nd release (2017): Suomi 100
3rd release (2017): Sydäntalvi
4th release (2017): Sisu
5th release (2018): Routa

This should be Game of Thrones whisky

Sydäntalvi means midwinter (rough translation would be heart of winter). It sounds like a phrase from Game of Thrones. Since this whisky is almost screaming that the winter is here, and it’s a kick ass single malt, I shall name it the GOT whisky.

Matured in:

Ex-Sherry butt

Colour: Amber

ABV: 61.3%

Nose: Lots of licorice. Little bit of smoke with that typical floral HP touch. Turns into minty and slightly peppery notes. Water adds smooth warming spices.

Taste: Velvety sherry and spices. Nicely oily. Nutmeg and floral notes. Water brings out hints of smoke and berries.

Finish: Faster than Sisu but still quite long. Licorice and peppers. Water adds lots of berries and wee smoke.

Balance: In great balance. Nice combination of smooth velvety and sweet sherry, along with peppery licorice touch. Very good Highland Park whisky!