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
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
