Suntory, The Yamazaki, 18-Year-Old, Single Malt Whisky, Japan (43%)

This single malt whisky comes from the Yamazaki Distillery, Japan's oldest. The malt is aged at least 18 years and vatted. This whisky is characterised by a mature, aromatically sweet nose, a delicate sweetness that comes from its storage in sherry casks, a strong and hearty woodiness and a deep and long-lasting finish.

Tasting note

Deep, mature in nature, and very complex. Notes of polished leather, maple syrup, and dark pit fruit, with suggestions of tobacco smoke, wood shavings, and unsweetened chocolate. References to fine old bourbon and ultra-matured pot-still rum provide intrigue. Proof that Japan produces some outstanding, distinctive whiskies. Nicely done!

John Hansell, WhiskyAdvocate.com