Hatozaki Pure Malt Japanese Whisky

Delightful lack of coloring is easily mistaken for lack of maturity, but what it really resembles is easily drinkable afternoon white wine.

Nose: pine, juniper, liquorice, some of the sweaty notes from the Hatozaki blended that have now sharpened up a bit. Pepper, resin, pencil shavings. Bitter lemon. Some toffee? Glazed meat? Palate: Really fills out compared to the Hatozaki blended. Much more full, but still zesty and peppery. Slightly herbal and grassy, with lime and tart fruits. A little bit of dry oakiness to it, some salted nuts. Burnt toast, a little bonfire smoke. Any sweetness is vanilla, I’d say. Finish: Smokey, a little woody. Overall: I really like that it’s zesty and spicy and refreshing, but a little more sweetness could have balanced it out a bit better. Love the resinous notes on the nose though, and as it opens it does become a little less sharp.

Not so bad. A bit stingy, unripe, not yet ready.

Not so bad. Delicate, floral, toffee and berries to taste. A small sharp edge can be found. When you add a splash of water, the whiskey opens up like a flower. With water (3.5) points. Perfect pair with afternoon cup of coffee.