dmoyer
Reviewed
November 21, 2017 (edited November 27, 2017)
Last sample of the night is Nikka Pure Malt Black. This is an NAS blended malt whisky from Japan, it's also my first Japanese whisky, so there's that! Bottled at 43% ABV it's a medium gold in the glass. It coats the glass with a nice oily coating and leaves decent legs.
On the nose there are light grassy/floral notes; some citrus and orchard fruits. There's not really any noticable smoke, but there is a very light alcohol burn. Not bad, but not too impressive.
The palate is much better. There is slightly dark sweetness like light caramel. Also apples and honey. A light heat with some dark sweet cereal tones. Really pretty nice.
The finish is a little disappointing. It's short, malty, and finally reveals a hint of smoke. This edition of Nikka is not available in the US. It lists for $51 on MasterOfMalt. If I could pick up a bottle locally for $51 I would be willing to do so. Overall not bad. 3.75/5.0. Cheers!