From the Hakushu distillery in the foothills of Mount Kaikomagatake comes their Distiller's Reserve single malt whisky, a no-age-statement expression, that captures the smoky, herbaceous characteristics of their whiskies. Both lightly-peated and heavily-peated malts were used for this complex and deeply enjoyable whisky from Suntory.
The herbs are very up front with this one. Peppermint, pine and pleasant grassy notes. Cucumber and melon round out the nose.
All the notes on the nose swim effortlessly through the palate, the mint developing sweeter notes as it goes on. Citrus zest also pops in to say hello.
A waft of smoke appears during the long finish.
This shall make a fantastic Highball. Oh yes it shall.
Entry level (8 yrs?) malt - so there is an edge to it and very little complexity. Dont believe any of the marketing-speak about 'green herbs' 'yuzu' or 'Cucumber' - but maybe, perhaps there is smoke on the finish if you imagine really hard. The reality is it's an excellent drinking whiskey, a well deserved glass in the evening. And maybe another glass after that. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Think of a bath of hot water to soak in. Some you lower yourself gently into as you need to get used to it before you enjoy it. You know the style 2/3 tastes maybe more. The you go Haaaaaaaa nice. This is a single malt that has already been checked tested and you just get in there and soak from the 1st sip to getting out clean and refreshed. It's Japanese precision. Personally no hidden corners, no shocks, no surprises. However don't get me wrong it's comfort incarnate. Favourite film,slippers and music score.
A good alternative to the 12 year old, this can be had for as little as €20-25 if you search out alternative off-licences and suburban department stores in Tokyo and its environs. Quite an accomplished whisky for the price and perhaps even a little less ubiquitous than its bigger and more expensive 12 year old brother.
Perfectly described, seriously good drop. Very easy to get stuck into. The peat delicately arrives after lashings of mint and melon, mmmmm Steve McGiff....Cornwall..
