Finally time to start cracking into some unopened bottles in the collection before my wife starts counting them. Single malt showdown: Auchentoshan 12, Cragganmore 12 and Nikka Miyagikyo. All tasted in glen cairn glass and rested for about 30 minutes. Let's Miyagikygo! I should also preface this is my first time trying a Japanese single malt. Can someone tell the emperor to lower the damned prices! Nose: Pears, apple blossoms, and a hint of malt. A very delicate flower this. Palate: Thin mouthfeel that starts very light but grows. Orchard fruits and a decent amount of smoke. Like a burnt tarte tatin. Finish: Lengthy, floral and warm. There's a lot going on here and I can't quite figure it all out. All I know is that this is a heck of a solid dram. I can only imagine how great this would be with a bit more age behind it. I guess the emperor can charge whatever the hell he wants, because I get why people want this stuff. Final results of the showdown: 1st place: Miyagikyo 2nd place: Auchentoshan 12 3rd place: Cragganmore 12 Katana beats the broadsword. Palate: