Nose: It may be simplistic to say but think about a peated version of the Foundation 1. Not sure what the peating level is in PPM but I would call this medium even if this was heavily peated. This is quite typical of peated Japanese Whiskies and it is a personal preference as I’ve never been won over by whiskies that are unbalanced on the peated side. The green apples and pears found in the Foundations 1 though the pear is more on the preserved in alcohol kind. Hints of honey, vanilla and honeydew melon. Peated lemons, brine and iodine but again not out of balance. Strongly reminiscent of a good Mescal.
Palate: Honey, caramel, almonds, green apples, pears, peated lemons. The quality of the new make distillate is on show as there is no palate burn what so ever. The Mescal again.
Finish: Actually quite drying on oak, leather and tea tannins. The peated lemons, some smoked meats and ginger bread.
Last Word: The peating adds some extra dimensions over the Foundations 1. Very promising indeed and the overall balance is excellent.
A note to the distillery, when we are paying Yen 3-4000 for a 200ml bottle of new make how about making the label presentation a little more classy and distinctive. Looks like something printed at home on a 50 buck printer!
Rating: 80/100
Sounds promising, Brian! I look forward to trying some Akkeshi in due course. Have you tried any of the Yamazakura Asaka Newborns? Unlike some of the old Yamazakura, these are all Japanese spirit. I had a bottle of the mizunara matured one sent over but I haven’t opened it. I agree that the presentation of these Akkeshis leaves a bit to be desired
Haven’t tried the Yamakazura Newborn Alan. Will be back in Japan in November so if I see it may try it then.