Yamazakura Blended Whisky (Japan)

Volume: 0.7 litres | Alcohol content: 40% | Chill filtration: Yes | Colouring: Yes

Special Features:

Introduced in 2015, Fine Blended Whisky Black Label brings malt and grain whiskies together in an approachable blend from Sasanokawa Shuzo. Imported whisky components are combined with spirit from the company's own Asaka Distillery. The bottling comprises four malt and grain whiskies matured in bourbon casks.

Bottled at 40%, this whisky has a mild profile: floral elderflower and malt mingle with caramel, pear, vanilla and citrus notes. A subtle iodine nuance and a hint of peat complete its character.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The nose is mild and delicate, with elderflower, malt and caramel alongside a subtle iodine nuance.
• Palate: The whisky feels light and silky on the palate, with pear, cereal, vanilla and citrus notes.
• Finish: The finish is rounded and smooth, with lingering iodine, vanilla and cereal.

Distillery/Bottler:

Sasanokawa Shuzo is responsible for the composition and official bottling of Yamazakura Fine Blend. The family-owned company operates Asaka Distillery in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture, and owns the Yamazakura whisky brand.

The company's history dates back to sake production by Lake Inawashiro in 1710; it moved to Koriyama in 1765. After the war, rice shortages made sake production difficult. Acquiring a whisky licence in 1946 therefore allowed the company to enter another line of business. In 2016, a historic warehouse with earthen walls was relocated and fitted with pot stills and mash tanks for Asaka Distillery.

Facts: