Hakushu Story of the Distillery, Bourbon Cask, 2024, 43%

Pineapple and vanilla cream give the nose a sweet, rounded start, while the palate is described as light and refreshing rather than rich. The soft wasanbon sweetness is checked by a slight bitterness, and lingering ember-like smoke adds contrast on the finish. That balance keeps the sweeter notes from taking over. The faint bitter touch may not suit everyone, but it gives the whisky definition.

Reviewed by RainySoda

Nose

Pineapple, Vanilla cream, Roasted green tea

Palate

Light and refreshing, Soft sweetness of wasanbon, Slight bitterness

Finish

Lingering ember-like smoke, Faint bitter touch