Nose: Lots of oak and sawdust. Pineapple chunks, vanilla, orange, flint, charcoal, shoe polish, peanut butter.
Palate: Charred BBQ steak. Ash, mixed peel, peanuts and a little salt. Water make this tangier.
Finish: Very ashy and dry. Also some menthol and peanut sauce.
Last Word: Look it’s ok, but I’ve a number of $20-30 Japanese whiskies that are better. Nuff said!
Rating: 81/10
*Notes taken from a purchased sample
I’ve said it many times and will say it again – that’s the joys of tasting – each and to their own, each and every person has individual takes on things which is great – however, I must add, this particular Zawa was/is one of two all time greats for me until now. It may be a while for something else to over come it, mind you I have not had as many as most of you guys. The TIBS 99/2000 vintages for 2012 however are a different story in my opinion, but yes, a different league I suppose.
Brian, this just shows how tastes can differ. That particular Karuizawa, cask #162, is one of my all-time favourites (at least so far). I hope your sample was not too expensive. 😉
Well it wasn’t the worst Karuizawa I’ve tasted Pierre : ) Of course the sample was expensive, but a lot less expensive that wasting money on a full bottle : ).
Wow, that’s the first bad note i read or comment i hear about this particular bottle. I thought until now that this one was an absolute safe bet for Karuizawa fans. Anyway, as usual, i’ll have to make my own opinion by tasting it one of these days.
Thanks for the blog and the notes, always very informative : keep up the great work !
It probably is a safe bet for Karuizawa fans.