Spirit of the Bear is part of a trio of Travel Retail market releases from Highland Park in 2018. This is a no-age-statement single malt that was matured in sherry seasoned American oak casks, and bottled at 40% ABV. We assume that the bear-based spirit which the name refers to is that of the strong, noble type that Vikings saw in the creature, rather than the picnic basket stealing and fedora hat wearing spirit we know bears for today.

Nose: Peat is up-front, though swiftly moves on to brioche dipped in coffee and fresh honey.

Palate: Orange peel and stem ginger. Still enjoyably smoky, though now with hints of floral barley in tow.

Finish: Sandalwood and vanilla malt.