Yamazaki 12 Year

No real peat smoke, more like residue from cooking bacon, on top of vanilla French toast with booze syrup. Side of fruit. Delectable.

don't think it was memorable, but early tasting days before I knew much. just remember it tasting light.

There is something special about Japanese whisky. Temperature differences and unique barreling techniques set them apart from both scotch and american whiskies, although distilling was borrowed from both. Suntory Distillery runs through my Top 10 favorites and this 12yr Yamazaki is still in my top 5. It's allocated now and hard to find, but it's absolutely worth it. The sweet and full aroma is impressive but is only a teaser for the rich and complex palate. This 2018 release is fuller in flavor and more balanced than I remember which bumped it into my Top 5, but still a farcry from its older brother the 18yr. Aroma: Orchard fruit, peach, & caramel. Flavor: Baked apple, apricot, clover honey, malt, & sandalwood. Aftertaste: Toasted coconut & lightly peaty. Body: Buttery, smooth, & round.

Excellent single malt flavor. Crisp notes of apples and butter toffee.