Tastes

For me, this scotch seems to share some similarities with a bourbon. The nose is sweet and fruity. The palate appears to be a little bit too dry and oaky for me. Not a fan, but this whisky probably needs some time to grow on me. "Good" : 2.5 stars | Good, just fine.

A beautiful light and easy grain whisky with a unique flavor. Prominent grain-y flavors come in before the finish, which is medium long, sweet and just a touch spicy. Not overly complex. "Good" : 2.5 stars | Good, just fine.

The 48% ABV is apparent in the perception of alcohol burn. It is, however quite nice and not at all off putting. Allowing it to open up some minutes in the glass improves the balance of the rather distinct flavors. Obviously there is smoke and pepper, but there is also some sweetness present on the nose and in the finish. "Enjoyable" : 3.5 stars | Well above average.

Fruity flavors with butterscotch, minty notes and spice in the finish. "Tasty" : 3 stars | A cut above.

Sweet and fruity on the nose, but with plenty of spice. The finish was medium with a kick of heat. A decent whisky, but I'm not in love with it. "Good" : 2.75 stars | Good, just fine.

Wonderful expression of peaty whisky, because of the wonderful complexity with sweetness, fruityness and smoke. A pleasure to drink! "Enjoyable" : 3.5 stars | Well above average.

Very decent, relatively smooth and a good buy for this money. Taste of caramel and vanilla stands out. "Good" : 2.5 stars | Good, just fine.

Very elegant flavor profile. It is smooth and very easy to drink. The influence of the Yamazaki and the Chita, which I have tried both, are definitely noticable on the nose. I get vanilla, honey, grapes, apricots and grass. On the palate, I find the sweetness and sourness shining through, with candied fruits and honey, along with a creamy mouthfeel. The finish is of medium length with no burn, backed by lasting notes of oak and more honey. This encompasses what Japan is known for: refinement and beauty. Very light in taste but delivers all it flavors. "Tasty" : 3.25 stars | A cut above.

Not bad for the price, but overall a forgettable experience. "Drinkable" : 1.5 stars | Overall a forgettable experience.

Interesting profile and full of flavours. Peaty, rich and sweet. Not too harsh with an ABV of 50. An amazing Islay whisky! "Excellent" : 4 stars | Really quite exceptional.