My second Japanese whisky tasting, my first Yamazaki. This one is sold out almost everywhere and well hyped up, perhaps a bit controversialto some? Well, I tasted it with an open mind as with any dram that I taste. The notes on the nose gave me some sweetness of fresh fruits, on the berry side. Floral tones to accompany them and then I put my nose in the Glencairn where marzipan and vanilla lingered in the background. I got a tart, tingling sensation on the toungue but this time also tannins for a dry feel. I attribute this to the Bordeux and Sherry casks, which explains the berries on the nose. Those berries also lingers on the palate as well as citrus from the tartness. The finish did not linger but did give me a clear oak note that was good to me. I haven't had a Japanse whisky matured in a Mizunara cask before, so I would like to compare this to other drams that have. An enjoyable single malt for sure, I wish the finish would give me more. A revisit or comparison to the Yamazaki 12yo is in order! Either way the Japanese drams are intriguing. Instagram: Mr.LJWhisky