Highland Park 12 is a classic single malt Scotch whisky, made from barley grown on Orkney Island and distilled in copper pot stills at the distillery’s location on the southernmost tip of that island. The distillery was founded in 1798 by Magnus Eunson, who lived on Orkney for most of his life and built up a reputation as an intrepid explorer and trader. His son, also named Magnus (and known as “Old Pogue”) built upon those foundations and became one of Scotland’s most respected whiskey makers during his time at Highland Park; he remained owner until 1872 when he sold out to Alexander Mackenzie & Company Limited–a company owned by members of Clan Mackenzie–who continue to own Highland Park today.

The barley used for Highland Park 12 comes from farms near where it is distilled: an area known locally as “The North Isles.” These fields are irrigated with fresh water drawn directly from underground springs rather than collected rainwater; this enhances flavor while reducing environmental impact since less evaporation means less runoff into surrounding bodies such as lochs or seaside estuaries.