Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (Discontinued)

An old friend living in Japan shared a tiny 200ml bottle with me, produced for the native market, with almost no English on the label! Nose: a little hot at first, light charcoal, dark toffee, traces of shoe polish and sautéed mushrooms. Palate: sharp, grilled apples and pears, nutty, hints of floral soapiness. Finish: full and tart, rich oak, a little brilliant and unexpected pistachio note lingers longest! Pleasantly surprised, reminds me of a Highland Park or Benromach (although not quite as deep, smooth or balanced). Wish I'd the chance to try their aged bottlings... Dry Glass: sweet pistachio!

Extra long finish, woody