Akashi Blended Whisky

Akashi Blended Whisky, 5 YO, 40 %

Today I am putting a Japanese blended whisky to the test. This whisky is made by Eigashima Shuzo, at their White Oak Distillery.

The Akashi Blended Whisky has been matured intitially for three years in hogsheads, and then finished for two years in virgin oak casks.

The Akashi Blended Whisky is available to buy in Norway at NOK 525 (50 cl) (1818302), in Sweden at SEK 488 (8554402), and in the UK at around GBP 35.

Nose: Dry-ish in style. Mild spiciness in the form of cinnamon and white pepper. It gives off a definitive Autumnal vibe. Chocolate and coffee with time. Actually a little malty as well. A touch of toasted oak. With time it appears lighter, now with citrus top notes and a mellow sweetness.

Taste: Medium body and sweetness. A little raw in character. Not at all on par with what the nose promised, which is too bad. Some fruitiness, and a brief wave of spiciness. Almonds and some oakiness.

Finish: Relatively short finish. Sweeter and a bit flat now.

Comment: Fair enough on the palate, but the nose is very nice.

Score 78/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas