Highland Nectar is a brand-new Scotch Whisky liqueur from Elixir Distillers (not to be confused with the blended whisky created by DCL in the late Victorian era). Kind of an artisan Drambuie, I guess.
It is a combination of Highland whisky with an array of herbs, spices and fruits (and sugar…), including bitter orange, star anise, vanilla, lemon oil, ginger and cinnamon. It’s meant to work on its own or in cocktails.
I must admit I have no experience with whisky liqueurs, but let’s approach it with an open spirit. I do like a Rumbullion from time to time and this is a similar idea.
Highland Nectar – Scotch Whisky liqueur (35%, Elixir Distillers 2021)
Nose: packed with spiced toffee aromas at first. Caramel mixed with vanilla and all-spice. Ginger and cinnamon stand out, but basically all the baking spices can be found. A light fragrant touch of floral honey and oak in the background, as well as brown sugar.
Mouth: sweet and coating, there’s a generous amount of brown sugar with vanilla syrup? Star anise, candied orange peels and nutmeg. Just a hint of cardamom. Ginger candy.
Finish: more on spiced pastry (cinnamon rolls, aniseed biscuits) and honey.
I’m generally not a fan of sweet alcoholic drinks, so I had to get used to its sugary texture. On the other I do get the balanced character and the overall qualities – this really works during the holiday season, by the fireplace. Now where can I buy a fireplace? Highland Nectar is available from The Whisky Exchange and other retailers.
Interestingly, my bottle mentions the adress of an Elixir office in Berlin (Germany) on the back label. The solution to all of our Brexit problems? Bring on 2022.