Yamazaki 12 Year is exactly what one is hoping for when desiring a full beginning to end whiskey experience. Patience is rewarded in spades. The nose leaves no stone unturned. While there’s no question the theme is sweets, I’ve never had a dram with so many layers. Don’t be afraid to linger and appreciate the deep amber hue before tasting. You’ll find vanilla, melon, honey, oak, toasted marshmallow, banana, walnut, pie crust, tropical tones and mild baking spices with a creamy finish. Loosen those up with a drop or two to really draw from the lightness of that mallow. On the tongue, medium mouth feel with an airy sophistication. Sweet and warm, hitting dry and with satisfying charm, less aimed at identifiable flavor profile and more on experience. The finish is unique, offering a smooth exit. The best part however is that it returns as if to provide a beautiful encore. Heat raises from you stomach back into you chest as if to say “we weren’t done.” Experiencing it for the first time was alarming. Then I looked forward to it after every sip. Yamazaki 12 offers something for everyone, regardless of whiskey experience level. It’s fun, delicious and leaves you feeling special. (FWF share #48) Opened: 10/09/18 Finished: 02/12/18 Bottle #2 Opened: 12/13/19 Finished: