Orkney 19Y (HP) Signatory Vintage Decanter 2005/2024 70 cl. 54,4%

Orkney 19 Years 2005/2024 54.4% is a powerful, sherry-soaked Orkney single malt, bottled by Signatory as part of its Cask Strength Collection. Distilled in 2005 and matured for 19 years in a single first-fill Oloroso sherry butt before being bottled in 2024 at natural cask strength 54.4%, it’s one of those “Secret Orkney” bottlings where the “HP” on the label gives a pretty strong hint about the distillery.

Style & origin

This whisky combines the classic Orkney hallmarks – gentle smoke, heather honey and a salty coastal touch – with the richness of long-term Oloroso sherry maturation. Think dense texture, layers of dark fruit and nuts, and a robust but elegant delivery.

Nose

The nose is rich, dark and inviting:

• masses of dried fruits: raisins, figs, dates and black cherries

• heather honey, caramelised nuts and pecan pie

• milk chocolate, cocoa, toffee and a little treacle

• maritime hints of sea salt and coastal air, with a faint wisp of smoke

• a savoury, meaty touch – roast gravy, stock, umami – adding depth

Palate

On the palate, it is full-bodied, oily and concentrated:

• a big sherry hit of raisins, stewed dark berries, plum sauce and cherry chocolate

• honey, toffee, light syrup, vanilla fudge and soft brown sugar

• toasted pecans, walnuts and dark chocolate

• subtle smoke, grilled meat, salted caramel and a firm, salty-mineral backbone

At 54.4% ABV, it has serious power but remains well-balanced. A splash of water brings out more honey, orange zest and creamy chocolate notes.

Finish

The finish is long, warming and sherry-rich:

• cocoa powder, dark chocolate and dried fruit

• honeyed nuts, oak spice, a hint of salt and gentle, savoury smoke

• a slowly drying, spicy-chocolatey aftertaste that lingers for a long time

Serving & character

Best enjoyed neat in a tulip-shaped glass with a little time to breathe; adding a few drops of water helps to unlock extra layers of fruit and soften the sherry tannins.

An excellent choice if you enjoy:

• full-on sherry-matured island whisky with maritime character

• subtle Orkney/Highland Park smoke wrapped in honey, nuts and dark fruit

• limited, cask strength “Secret Orkney” bottlings with serious depth and collectability