This is a whisky that I've wanted to try for a while now, and I finally had the chance on a recent NYC swing at the Copper Still in Chelsea.  I found the Yamazaki 12 to be a classic Japanese whisky in most respects - sweet, floral and pretty.  But there is one oddity that I'm not sure I can get past - I found a strong bubblegum note on the palate.  It wasn't just a fleeting thing - it was there throughout.  Interetingly, I searched the reviews here and elsewhere, and while a handful of people found bubblegum on the nose, I didn't find any other comments about it on the palate. Overall, I like this whiskey - it's smooth sweet, and very pleasant.  But I'm struggling with the idea of paying $100+ for a whiskey that reminds me of something I bought for 25¢ a pack in fifth grade.  Perhaps another tasting is in order...