Hakushu Distiller's Reserve

Such a distinct interesting flavor. The profile is incredible. Every sip brings a new taste. It’s very floral and the slightest bit peaty that just makes it such an enjoyable pour

The expert review is spot on, but doesn’t mention the strong malt forward character that strikes you first. Or second, after the urinous hue, perhaps. Green apples and pear drops is exactly right, with a faint peaty and green turf note on the finish. Quite pleasant, but not a real favourite for this drinker.

Nose: Apple (raeburn, if I may be so bold), grass, citrus zest, a little sandy. After a while some burnt leaves, plastic bucket, fresh cooking herbs like parsley. Some mineral chalky notes. Cucumber and melon note from MoM is on the money. Palate: Great first impression - hit of honey that’s backed up by this really nice earthiness and mossy note. Vegetal more than it is sweet, herbs again. Mint, but that full kind of minty taste you get in Moroccan tea. Not damp like a Ben Nevis, but warm kind of earthiness. Some peppery spice, a little vanilla and light, fresh smoke. Humbugs. More and more bright mint as it goes on. Becomes almost like a fernet branca taste. Finish: Bracing, fresh and menthol. Overall: delicate notes, but quite full on in the mint department. Sweetness alongside that fernet note is really cool. Slightly bitter one that makes me want to try more Hakushu whisky! Almost gets a 4 because it’s not boring.

Drank it with bro and cousins in ouranoupoli in September 2020. Much better than the chita, but still forgettable and overpriced.