I recently did a 3-way, Japanese whiskey tasting flight using samples generously supplied by my NJ connection: @PBMichiganWolverine. This blend from Nikka finished in third place behind the Ohishi Single Sherry Cask and the vaunted Hibiki 21. This was bottled at 51.4% and appeared copper gold in the tasting glass, with tiny and oily beads around the edge. It took a minute or two before a few, sparse legs ran back down the sides. Thickness. The nose was initially grainy with a wonderful cedar note. Light and lively rye spices appeared after some time (odd, to me) along with faint smoke. The palate was grain heavy at first, with some spice and smoke before turning malty with sherry and floral flavors. The mouthfeel was solid, albeit a tad harsh. The finish is medium-long and spicy. It’s smooth but turns dry at the very end. Overall, it’s a 4 star dram for sure- it just doesn’t hold up next to the well-aged Hibiki or the surprising upstart Ohishi. Thanks again, Mr B. They were 3 great samples. Cheers.