Yamazaki Distiller Reserve Japanese Whiskey

The Distiller's Reserve joined the Yamazaki core range in 2014. Composed of young whisky matured in ex-red wine casks (Bordeaux) vatted with older malts that were matured in ex-sherry casks (aged approximately 20 years) and mizunara (Japanese) oak casks (approximately 12+ years). Bottled at 43%.

Nose: Vanilla, honey and cherries along with raspberry jam, hints of raisin and an fragrant wood spices including fresh oak, cinnamon, nutmeg and sandalwood.

Palate: Cocoa powder, ginger, toasted nuts and a floral incense note. Very refined with the sweetness continuing from the nose with added coconut, icing sugar, bitter orange, cinnamon and oak.

Finish: Sweet and syrupy to start and then developing to spice and oak. Slightly astringent from the wine casks with hazelnuts.