Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (New Formula)

A little spice on the tongue with a little heat.

Light smoke. Pleasant overall.

Glass: Glencairn, rested 15 minutes. Color: Light amber. Nose: Floral with notes of pear and smoke. Palate: Some interesting oak, a little spice, and a whole lot of smoke. Finish: Smoky notes linger, but finish is not particularly hot. Splash: No new flavors are revealed. Overall: 7.5/10 - I had tried the old recipe in a bar years ago. This is different that what I remember, but the smoke makes it seem almost like a smoky scotch. I can't find fault with it, but it doesn't really stand out either.