When was the last time an elegant bottle caught your eye? I had to do a double take when I saw Shinju's attractive cylindrical bottle with auburn liquid on the shelf. Shinju (真珠) means pearl in Japanese. According to its label, "ancient Japanese believed pearls were created from the tears of Angels, born of the water." When I read further that this was crafted with water from Mt. Fuji, my curiosity was piqued! Shinju is a blend of four whiskies that have each been aged in new and mature American white oak barrels.  Shinju's nose has a very light ethanol, honey and citrus scent. Interestingly, this didn't change or deepen significantly over time with the exception of added subtle floral notes. Aside from a momentary fermented sweetness, the flavour profile nearly verges on sour and tangy with barley grain. The finish is rather quick and ghostly, with some oak and a mouth-belly tingle.  I didn't know what to expect but I had high hopes for Shinju. While this is a very light-feeling and smooth pour, it lacks the substance and complexity despite its youthful age. I'd likely look to use this in more-delicate whisky cocktails that won't completely overshadow it. I'm certainly no Angel, but I shed a few "pearls" from it missing my expectations. 6.75/10