The nose on this is much prettier than I expected, overripe bruised apples kick it off early, then mellow out to reveal delicate white grapes followed by malted cereal. Nothing seems to try and take over from the other.. quite soft and light. Palate is coated initially in a bright honey, but doesn’t hang around long enough to be overwhelmingly sweet. It shifts at just the right moment to more grassy flavors, as if I just left the beehives and am now strolling through a flowering field. This evolves to more earthy tones, some light peat and then heavier malt, all while staying lively and interesting. The finish is quick; a little pepper, a little wood, and a little warmth from the proof. This whisky is good, and feels like it’s close to being great. The palate is interesting and delicious but it just moves too quick so I’m left wanting more. If you are looking for a tasty and reasonably priced Japanese dram, I would recommend snagging a bottle of this.