Yamazaki is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan's first and oldest malt distillery. This 12 year old first came onto the market in 1984 and was the first seriously marketed Japanese single malt whisky. Since then, it has acquired something of a cult following, and for good reason! A wonderfully elegant and smooth single malt that’s certainly not lacking in flavour.
Good body with plenty of nut oils and zest, a pleasant floral character with a little tropical fruit and a rooty note.
Smooth and soft with good sweetness and winter spice. A lovely citrus note develops with more tropical fruit notes and a little rum.
Medium with fruit and zest.
In my opinion, this is overpriced and overrated. I found it very nutty, oily and oaky. I did not find tropical fruits. I found oranges but the nutty and oakiness just overpower it.
First, let me say that when handed this I was shocked as to how good it was. It was full bodied and flavored and tasted deeper than the average many 15 year olds. But the pricing model has made it not-affordable. Just a few years ago this could be found in NY for $40 and in CA for $30. Even in 2016, around $60 in NY - suddenly, the price has shot up and is selling at crazy numbers. I can't imagine that the average scotch drinkers can afford this anymore and they won't be losing market share. Which is too bad.
I had it a taste of it recently during a stay in Hiroshima , brilliant Malt , I liked it's sweet palate ,soft fruits and the smoky taste . The price was good too at about 5€ a generous one .
Sampled it last month in a hotel in Kyoto at 500 yen a glass about £3.70 GBP (serious measure too !!) superb whisky and at an unbelievable price !
The best Whisky Ive ever had!
