Alright, it's Suntory Time. If you gave a blind pour and then told me that I was drinking a Speyside malt, I'd accept it without reservation. Nose: Floral and fruity. Big-time gala apple note is present right off the bat. Next it's honey sweetness, and beneath that is some sherry sweetness. Plum, apricot, and red berry in particular, and even some pound cake. A bit of cinnamon, baking spice, and ginger. Throughout, there is a distinct pine note, which is somewhat of a deviation from the standard Speyside profile. Outside of that however, it's Speyside through and through; though I must say, this is a step of from the average Speyside. A second pour reveals the classic Irish whiskey shortbread note. Somewhat reminiscent of Green Spot. It's a nice touch. Palate: Rich and buttery upon arrival. Custard sweetness right off the bat. The red apple is still there, accompanied by more honey and the standard vanilla. As the palette progresses, there is a seamless transition to zesty orange and decadent chocolate. Malty and oaky. This palate is dessert sweet without overdoing it. Incredibly balanced and definitely the highlight for me. It's a perfect balancing act of confectionery sweetness, fruit sweetness, citrus, and oak. Well done, Suntory. Finish: Medium length. The spice that was prominent in the nose resurfaces at this point. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and other baking spices. Prominent oak. It doesn't add a great deal of depth to the whisky, but it is worthy finish to a superb pour. Surprised? Didn't think so. If you're familiar with Speyside single malts, you could have seen the direction I've taken with this review from a mile away. What is surprising is that this Japanese blend, and many others that I've tried, share more in common with Scotch than Irish whiskey does. I guess geography only goes so far. I am impressed by this one, especially by the palate. I've likened this one to a Speyside malt; yet, I have to say it is a cut above the average Speyside whisky. The ginger and pine notes help to set this one apart. It lacks the complexity of a 5-star whisky, but it makes up for this with incredible balance and consistency. Bearing in mind that we tend to pay a premium for Japanese whisky, I'd say I got every penny out of my $80. If you're a fan of Speyside/Highland malts and you're looking for something new, this will be right up your alley. It's a shame this stuff has gotten so hard to find; forget about the age statement Hibiki. But for now, this'll do. 4.5/5.