Suntory Whisky Toki Classification: Japanese Blended Whisky Proof: 86 (43%) Age: NAS Mashbill: Undisclosed (Blended) Distillery: Suntory’s Hakushu, Yamazaki, and Chita Distillieries Price: $30 - $40 Color: Light Gold Nose: Herbal, light, fresh, crisp apple, grain Palate: Honey sweet, bright & clean, strong green apple, pear, mild herbal notes, tiniest hint of smoke Finish: Medium-quick finish, green apple persists, hints of vanilla towards the end, fairly mild heat, pleasant sweetness from start to finish Personal Rating: 6.75/10 Notes: When it comes to Japanese Whisky, I have basically zero experience, I’m a bourbon guy and I know what I like. However, after recommendations from the guys at NWB and a friend, I decided to give it a try and was told that Toki was a great introduction to the world of Japanese Whisky. Overall, I really enjoyed Toki. There is a very prevalent green apple flavor that is very enjoyable, mind you don’t get the tartness, just the essential flavor. The sweetness is really dialed in as well, perfectly sweet. The only thing that I didn’t care for in this pour is the somewhat malty grainy-ish aroma in the nose, it isn’t bad, but strangely it reminded me of an almost tequila quality, and I’m not a fan of tequila at all. That being said, it didn’t Rhône the experience for me at all. I have read that adding some water can open up even more floral notes, but truthfully I think Toki is great as is, neat. Perfect for a hot day outside in the sun, the crisp fruit flavors make it a very refreshing pour. If Toki is an introduction to Japanese Whisky, then I will definitely look forward to sample more