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From Orkney to the Bay for a few days

The Highland Park’s 54

By Luke Beard

June 5^th, 2024

Back to CA, by invitation.

had the pleasure of attending the launch event for Highland Park’s oldest and rarest whisky to date—the Highland Park 54 Year Old—at the historic Cavallo Point in Sausalito, CA.

As someone who lived in San Francisco for five years, it was fantastic to be back in the Bay Area, especially for such a unique occasion. The nostalgia of familiar streets and the excitement of this exclusive event made it a perfect blend of old and new experiences.

Note: This was a paid partnership with Highland Park whisky.

Orkney-ish

The venue was stunningly designed, capturing the untamed beauty of Highland Park’s Orkney home. From the moment I stepped into Cavallo Point, it was clear that this was going to be an unforgettable evening. The ambiance was carefully curated to reflect the rugged landscapes and contrasting elements that inspired Highland Park’s 54-year-old whisky. Every detail, from the decor to the lighting, echoed the heritage and craftsmanship behind the brand.

The event kicked off with an immersive experience that felt like stepping into another world. The evening featured a once-in-a-lifetime tasting of Highland Park’s latest expression. Guests were treated to the exquisite 54-year-old whisky, beautifully presented in bespoke embossed decanters. The rich flavors and history behind each sip were a testament to the distillery’s long-standing tradition of excellence.

I don't remember to much about this moment apart from the Fleetwood Mac cover, that absolutely ripped.

Boat Day Tasting

The bay and casket tastes.

Sausalito sips

The following day, we embarked on a boat ride around the San Francisco and Sausalito Bay. It was another chance to soak in the beauty of the area and learn more about Highland Park. We sipped on a yet-to-be-released expression of Highland Park whisky while enjoying the iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sausalito Bay, with its picturesque marinas and charming houseboats, provided the perfect backdrop for this adventure.

The cool breeze, the breathtaking scenery, and the rich flavors of the whisky made for a perfect combination. As we sailed past the historic Sausalito waterfront, we were treated to views of the rolling hills and lush greenery that characterize this charming town. The bay is home to a vibrant marine life, and we even spotted some playful seals lounging on the docks. It was a relaxing and enlightening experience, offering a deeper appreciation of the brand’s heritage and innovation.

Look at these seals.

A toast in the city.

That evening, we were treated to a tasting menu at Aphotic in San Francisco. The food was beautifully paired with Highland Park’s latest expression, each course more exquisite than the last. The chefs at Aphotic truly outdid themselves, creating dishes that complemented the complex flavors of the whisky. It was a sensory journey that highlighted the depth and richness of the 54-year-old expression. After the dinner, in true celebratory spirit, I ended up at a karaoke bar.

The night took an unexpected turn as I found myself singing my heart out alongside at Fiesta Karaoke Bar. We laughed, sang, and toasted to the incredible day we had just experienced. I had a blast, and somehow managed to lose my Apple Watch in the process—worth it for the memories made and the fun we had.

Reflecting on the event, it was clear that Highland Park had created something truly special. The 54-year-old whisky is not just a drink; it’s a piece of history, a testament to the art of whisky making. The bespoke embossed decanter and the presentation box, sculpted to represent the cliffs of Orkney, added to the sense of occasion. Each sip told a story of time, tradition, and the unexpected contrasts found in Orkney.

The entire event was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, filled with unexpected contrasts and unforgettable moments. A huge thank you to Highland Park for hosting such an incredible event and for the opportunity to taste their exceptional 54-year-old whisky. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do—capturing and sharing stories that are rich in experience and steeped in tradition.'