Akkeshi – Blended Usui 2021 (70cl, 48%)

Akkeshi Blended Usui 2021 is a Japanese blended whisky made from the distillery's own single malt and new make that was imported and aged on site. Its lightly peated character is notable, as the source of the style is uncommon in Japan. The nose is rich and fruity, with dark cocoa bitterness, the sweetness of a cream puff, raisins and citrus. On the palate, lemon and lime arrive with intensity, and juicy orange follows, recalling Caribbean Curaçao. The finish is smooth and spiced, with white pepper and milk chocolate lingering over fine, fragrant peat.