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Metnaðarleysi expresses satisfaction with one's traditional, primitive and basic life as a man and warrior, in harmony with natural and primal processes. We do not give up and we get things done. We act and behave with strength of character, resolve, resoluteness and firmness of purpose. DETERMINATION - Fastheldiįastheldi represents at the same time determination, perseverance, and tenacity. We master our mind and soul to achieve self-control. We stay true to the goals we have set for ourselves and our brothers while remaining flexible.
VIKING HONOR FREE
DISCIPLINE - AgiĪgi adds an element of constraint and even restraint to discipline, with a strong concept of self-control directly associated with free will. We are honest, we speak the truth, and we do not deceive our brothers. We do what is morally and ethically right, no matter the consequences. As such it goes beyond abstract concepts to refer specifically to an individual's actions. INTEGRITY - Dygðarĭygðar associates integrity with virtue, as well as actual virtuous deeds. We trust, we believe in, and we devote ourselves to our brothers. We bear true faith and allegiance to our brothers and to the Víkingar Code. LOYALTY - EinarðarĮinarðar goes well beyond loyalty. It is not just being faithful. It is deep, determined loyalty of a special kind, right to the core.
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We constantly increase the cohesion between us. We nurture friendships with each others for life and beyond. BROTHERHOOD - Bróðurleikrīróðurleikr involves a concept of brotherhood that is not religious, but instead more military, brotherly, fraternal, and sometimes similar to, or more powerful than, a blood connection.
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We develop and improve our fighting capabilities and skills. We train and shape our mind, body, and soul to be strong. Styrkr is more than physical and mental strength, as it also includes elements of force, mastery of core skills (such as archery), and even violence. We carry out, act, and live the values of the Víkingar Code, as well as those of respect, fairness, honesty, good qualities of character, and high standards of behavior. Heiðr goes beyond the simple modern concept of honor, as it directly links honor to self-worth, and thus, makes honor a fundamental and essential aspect of a man's very identity. We do what is right even in the face of adversity. We act with courage and sometimes bravery. We brave and endure difficulties, danger, pain, and duress. The views, opinions, and tasting notes are 100% my own.Aræði is defined as more than just courage. It has an element of boldness, of being dangerous and daring, and also willing to attack. Without the aspect of bravery often associated with not thinking straight, and thus, not having control over oneself. SCORE: 86/100 *Disclosure: This HIghland Park 12 was graciously sent to me by the company for the purposes of this review. It’s not one I HAVE to keep in the house, but one I enjoy thoroughly when it is. It’s good for sure, and I love it while I have it, but as soon as I’m done I move on. It’s a weird cycle that happens with Highland Park 12 (and a couple other bottles) yet it’s not one of my favorite whiskies. I’ll get a bottle, get obsessed, drink only it till it’s gone then move on until I get the craving again and repeat the process. It works well in cocktails and the dark heavy nose and palate make for a pleasant sipper.Īll-in-all it is a decent whisky and has been one of my favorites on and off over the last few years. It’s a decent single malt with a lot to offer and it comes in at the upper end of the average price for a 12yr old Scotch these days. Highland Park 12 is a fine dram, but I have to say that it’s noticably changed over the years, but there’s no use crying over dusty whisky because it’s gone and this is what it is now and… it’s not bad. Long and fruity punctuated by notes of char, malt, smoke and wood.ĭecent balance, medium body and a rich heavy feel. I feel the same way about the palate as I do the nose. Malt, cocoa and dried dark fruit lead the way followed by notes of peat, orchard fruit, char, apricots, some inky sherry-like sweetness and grilled fruit.
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If you’ve ever had the old slope shoulder or not-very-old round bottle you’ll know what I’m talking about. It’s a pleasant nose, but I have to be honest… it’s not what the 12 used to be. Toffee, char, dried dark fruit, chocolate licorice, malt, Nutella, oranges and a touch of smoke. There is no official word from the distillery so consider the info with that caveat. From multiple sources online it seems like the ratio of those casks is 9:1 meaning that it’s about 10% bourbon casks in each batch. Highland Park 12 is made on the island of Orkney using whisky aged for at least 12 years in ex-Oloroso sherry casks and ex-Bourbon casks.
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