[60.0%・11 Years Old・Distilled in 1991Bottled in 2002・Original Bottling・Cask No. 10 70629・ Single Cask Release]
I was fortunate to try this single cask at the Suntory W Shop a while back, a birth year bottling no less.
Nose:
The bourbon influence is mammoth on the nose, with rich and indulgent vanilla and caramel notes providing that instant satisfaction. There is an oiliness of maize that interacts with a cream powder note. Wholesome cornflakes to go with a faint dose of spices.
Palate & Finish:
A burst of strawberry fructose followed by a whopping sense of spiciness. Woof, it surely packs some heat. Hint of tropical pineapple note but the delivery is still overwhelmed by the palate-distorting spices.
It does slowly ease out in the finish with a clean oaky presence, along with honey and ginger notes that slowly surface.
Thoughts:
I suppose bigger isn’t always better, especially for a distillery that so often excels in producing whiskies around the 48% mark. Although Yamazaki does work well with bourbon casks as much as they do with sherry casks, contrary to popular belief; on this occasion there is an imbalance in this one that just doesn’t work for me..
–Nicholas
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