Highland Park goes to the dark side

Scotch brand Highland Park has introduced Earl Haakon, the third and final bottling of its limited edition Magnus Series.

The 18-year old cask strength single malt is priced at £160, carries an abv of 54.9% and has been limited to 3,300 bottles worldwide.

The first two bottlings of the series, Earl Magnus and Saint Magnus, celebrated 11th century Viking ruler of Orkney, Earl Magnus, while the third and final edition takes its name from his enemy and relative, Earl Haakon.

According to Highland Park, Orkney legend has it that Haakon was a “dark and sinister character” who murdered his cousin, the then ruler Earl Magnus.

The brand has described its latest edition as having “adopted the character of its namesake”, with its complex and powerful flavour.

Gerry Tosh, head of brand education, Highland Park, said: “Both previous bottlings began the storytelling but the introduction of Earl Haakon brings the saga to its climax and signals the end of the Highland Park series.

“The story of Magnus and Haakon is truly legendary in Orkney. The two were joint rulers of Orkney for a period of peace and harmony however things changed and they become enemies. 

“Legend has it that the two agreed to meet for a peace meeting but the treacherous Haakon sailed up with eight fully-equipped warships, outnumbering Magnus and sealing his fate."

Earl Haakon is available from specialist independent whisky retailers in the UK and at www.highlandpark.co.uk.