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Highland Queen is a brand of Scotch whiskey with a rich history of distillation and blending. The name, which translates as “Queen of the Highlands”, has become symbolic for the creators of the brand. The drink is considered an example of the art of mixing single malt and grain spirits. The taste characteristics of Highland Queen were discussed in detail by Jim Murray in his book The Whiskey Bible.
Historical information
The company was founded by Roderick McDonald in 1893 with his partner. The business was named Macdonald & Muir Ltd. At first, the company bought spirits for blending at other distilleries. Over the next ten years, work was underway to create a whiskey that would adequately represent Scotland on the international market. Having earned enough money, the partners bought the Glenmorangie distillery in the town of Thane in northern Scotland, where the first bottle of Highland Queen was released.
The brand is named after Queen Mary Stuart, who returned to the country from France by sea in 1561 and landed in the harbor near the factory. Roderick McDonald personally promoted the brand. He traveled extensively, making connections with merchants around the world. Having concluded another contract, the businessman sent orders to his homeland and continued his trip. As a result, Highland Queen has become the most famous brand of Scotch whiskey in many countries.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the company had to give up part of the market to other manufacturers. Nevertheless, the company successfully developed as a family business and changed ownership only in the mid-2008s. In XNUMX, the brand was bought by the French concern Picard Vins & Spiritueux SA. The new owners have expanded the range, keeping the recipes of existing drinks. The brand is represented by the Highland Queen Scotch Whiskey Company, the product line includes Scotch and single malt whiskey.
Awards
International Wine and Spirit Competition, Лондон:
- 2010 – gold medal;
- 2012, 2016 – silver medal.
Interesting Facts
- In 1924, Highland Queen was one of the few Scotch whiskeys selected for the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley. At the same time, the brand gained popularity in the United States, where the drink was imported in large quantities, despite the Prohibition.
- The Glenmorangie distillery has the highest copper stills in Scotland, which are exactly the same as the very first alambicas brought from the distillery of John Taylor back in 1887. This design contributes to the long-term interaction of alcohol vapors and copper, which gives the finished drinks a rich taste with dry grain tones.
Types of Highland Queen Whiskey
Highland Queen Blended 1561
Scotch contains 60% long aged malt spirits. The color is pale golden, apple and caramel shades stand out in the aroma. The flavor range combines candied fruits, salted caramel and spices.
Highland Queen Majesty Classic, 40%
Single malt whiskey aged in oak barrels dark golden color. In the rich fruity aroma, floral notes are distinguished. The taste is soft and smooth, with pronounced woody nuances.
Highland Queen 12 Years Old Majesty, 40%
An amber-colored drink with the aroma of pears, apples and roasted nuts. The texture is soft and silky, with malty and spicy notes on the palate. The finish is dominated by floral sweetness.
Highland Queen 16 Years Old Majesty, 40%
Shades of chocolate and spices stand out in the aromatic bouquet. The taste is sweetish, with hints of barley sugar and candies that mix with smoky peat tones. Expert Jim Murray, in his book The Whiskey Bible, specifically notes the high quality of the barrels in which the drink is aged.
Highland Queen 40 Years Old Majesty, 40%
Elite mahogany color whiskey with aromas of peaches, molasses, vanilla and lime. The noble taste distinguishes bitter chocolate, coffee, cinnamon and wood. The finish is long and pleasant with light pepper notes. One of the most experienced blenders Gavin Smith compared this drink with a breath of history.
