[61.2%・Distilled in 1988・Bottled in 2014・Ichiro’s Malt & Shinanoya Bottling・Cask No. 192・ Limited Release of 471 Bottles]
Nose:
Mizunara wood with a slightly acidic tone, pine wood and hazelnuts integrates nicely with the malt to form a foundation that later on releases notes of beeswax and warm tea infused with lemon and honey, the wood becomes more grounded and expressive in time.
Palate & Finish:
Citrus and lemon with quite a splash of pepper over golden honey as spices and oak come on. The oily spirit carries this fermented rice note much like sake.
A mild finish that steadies on with honey and floral notes as the malt and wood slowly take over.
Thoughts:
Composed and sophisticated aromas on the nose but the palate doesn’t quite capture the magic.
A missing puzzle perhaps (pun intended)?
☆ [Recommended]
-Nicholas
WhiskNick 