First japanese whisky ever Nose - immediately reminds me of bourbon. Has that chocolatey, malty flavor with hints of vanilla and baking spices. Cinnamon and nutmeg. Also has a bright character, some freshness. Tongue - it is a lot like bourbon and also different than a bourbon. It is spicy. Got a good hit of alcohol burn. It is very thick and coats the mouth very well. Good feel. The spicy overpowers the sweet. Two drops of water completely toned the spiceyness down for me. Has a good mature mouthfeel. Solid introduction to japanese whisky!