88 / 100
The interesting contrast is between the generous fruit and sweets—raisins, cherries, toffee—and the quieter oak and smoke. That gives this Japanese blended malt more than one direction to take, without making the notes feel like a crowded roll call. Cocoa and dark chocolate add a welcome drier edge to the sweetness. It sounds composed and layered, with familiar fruit at the centre and just enough spice and smoke to keep things from getting too cosy. A strong fit for someone who likes richness balanced by restraint.
Reviewed by SunbeamRadio
- Nose
- Dark fruit, cocoa, roasted nuts, and soft Mizunara oak spice, Sweet vanilla, ripe orchard fruits, and honey, Baked apples, cinnamon, and a touch of peat smoke
- Palate
- Raisins, toffee, black cherries, cinnamon, and clove, Toasted oak, dried figs, and a gentle touch of smoke, Apples, red berries, and subtle spice
- Finish
- Dark chocolate, oak, and a whisper of smoke, Caramel, minty notes, citrus, cinnamon, and woody spices, Freshly cut grass and green liquorice