Scotch
Scotland, World

$249.95 (326231)

The Valhalla Collection has been created by Highland Park to recognize the Scandinavian heritage of the Orkney Islands and the whiskey that's made there. Four Viking gods have been chosen to have whiskeys created after them in a manner that speaks to their character. Thor as the god of thunder and war packs a punch. At cask strength (52.1%) it's tough but fair. A few drops of water help open it up to reveal nuts, fruit and a sweet mid-palate from the former sherry casks that it's aged in. Make no mistake however the sweetness only slightly tames Thor's power. This is complex with a firm lengthy finish. Score: 95 (Margaret Swaine, www.WineAlign.com, Jan 2013)