The fourth in the Dewars ‘smooth’ series, Japanese Smooth is eight year Dewars that’s finished for an additional six months in Japanese mizunara oak casks. $25 — 40% ABV. Just like the other smooth releases, this is very easy sipping. Initially, I wasn’t very keen on it as the palate seemed too bitter on the finish with some oaky dryness, but after being open a few days the bitter-oaky notes seem to have mellowed out and the floral, honey and toffee notes have come forward along with a touch of cinnamon on the finish. Overall, I like it. It’s an inexpensive way to try a mizunara-finished whisky.