After nearly three decades of shaping one of Scotland’s most iconic single malt whiskies, Gordon Motion has stepped down as Highland Park’s master whisky maker. His 27-year tenure at the Orkney-based distillery has left an indelible mark on the world of Scotch, with a legacy celebrated through the release of a limited-edition 19-year-old single malt called Sherry Skies. As Motion passes the torch to Marc Watson, a seasoned blender with a deep passion for whisky, Highland Park stands at the cusp of a new chapter while honoring its storied past.
Gordon Motion’s journey with Highland Park began 27 years ago, and his contributions have been nothing short of remarkable. Over the years, he oversaw the creation of 90 new expressions and 435 single cask selections, each showcasing the distillery’s unique character. From selecting rare casks distilled in 1968 to craft the celebrated 56-year-old release to introducing Highland Park’s first cask strength and global travel retail offerings, Motion’s work has been a blend of tradition and innovation. His ability to balance science and instinct has helped elevate Highland Park to a revered status among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
Reflecting on his time at the distillery, Motion expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a custodian of Highland Park’s legacy. “It’s been a great privilege and even better fun,” he said at a farewell event in London. His pride in the distillery’s achievements is evident, as is his confidence in his successor, Marc Watson. “I couldn’t ask for a better person to take Highland Park into the future,” Motion said, praising Watson’s attention to detail, deep whisky knowledge, and creative flair.
Marc Watson, a Heriot-Watt University graduate with 11 years of industry experience, steps into the role of master whisky maker with enthusiasm and reverence for Highland Park’s heritage. Having served as master blender for The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt since 2023, Watson brings a wealth of expertise to the Orkney distillery. For the past six months, he has worked closely with Motion, immersing himself in Highland Park’s vast whisky stocks to ensure a seamless transition. “I’ve always been a huge fan of Highland Park’s different-by-nature approach,” Watson said. “I’m excited to build on the award-winning quality Gordon has nurtured while bringing my own creativity to the table.”
To mark Motion’s retirement, Highland Park has released Sherry Skies, a 19-year-old single malt that encapsulates the distillery’s signature style and Motion’s masterful touch. This limited-edition whisky, bottled at 48.8% ABV, is crafted from just nine carefully selected casks: three first-fill European oak Sherry quarter casks, three first-fill American oak Sherry quarter casks, and three ex-Bourbon casks. The Sherry casks, seasoned in Jerez specifically for Highland Park, impart rich, distinctive flavors that define this farewell dram.
Image credit: Highland Park
Motion explained the thought process behind Sherry Skies at his farewell event. “The Sherry quarter casks are so intense in flavor that I had to balance them with the lighter fragrance of the Bourbon casks,” he said. The European oak Sherry casks contribute dried fruit and tannin notes, while the American oak Sherry casks add sweet vanilla, creating a harmonious profile. The ex-Bourbon casks bring a delicate perfume note, rounding out the whisky with a subtle hint of Orkney’s heathered peat smoke. “I’ve sampled hundreds of thousands of casks in my career,” Motion added. “The nine chosen for Sherry Skies deliver a unique depth of flavor, singing with the Sherry sweetness I’ve loved perfecting.”
With only 1,200 bottles produced, Sherry Skies is a rare and sought-after release. Priced at £265 (approximately $360), it is available directly from Highland Park’s distillery, its Albert Street store, and the brand’s official website. Bottled without chill filtration and at natural color, this 19-year-old single malt is a fitting tribute to Motion’s legacy, offering collectors and whisky lovers a chance to savor a piece of Highland Park history.
Highland Park, located on the rugged Orkney Islands, has long been celebrated for its distinctive approach to whisky-making. The distillery’s use of local peat, dried with heather, imparts a gentle smokiness that sets it apart from other Scotch whiskies. Combined with its focus on Sherry-seasoned casks, this unique character has earned Highland Park a loyal following. Sherry Skies exemplifies this tradition, blending the rich, fruity intensity of Sherry casks with the subtle complexity of Bourbon cask maturation.
As Highland Park looks to the future under Watson’s leadership, the distillery remains committed to its core values of quality and innovation. Last year, Highland Park unveiled a refreshed brand identity, signaling its readiness to embrace a new era while staying true to its roots. Watson’s appointment promises to carry this momentum forward, blending respect for tradition with fresh ideas that will keep Highland Park at the forefront of the single malt category.
For whisky enthusiasts, Sherry Skies is more than just a bottle—it’s a celebration of Gordon Motion’s extraordinary career and a testament to Highland Park’s enduring legacy. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or shared among friends, this limited-edition release captures the heart of Orkney’s whisky-making tradition. As Motion himself put it, “I hope this farewell dram brings as much joy to those savoring it as I had creating it.” With Marc Watson now at the helm, Highland Park’s next chapter promises to be just as exciting, ensuring that the distillery’s legacy continues to thrive.
