Hakushu – 18 Year Old Peated 100th Anniversary (70cl, 48%)

This is Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated, a single malt made for the 100th anniversary of Suntory Whisky. It is a limited release of 2,000 bottles, bottled at 48% ABV in 70cl and without added colour. The whisky matured for at least 18 years in a variety of casks. Peat gives it a smoky character, and the mountain water of the region, filtered through old granite, is said to soften the flavour. The nose is lively with sage, ripe green apple and a hint of ripe pineapple. The palate shows complex smoke with herbal, grapefruit and acacia honey notes, and the finish carries elegant smoke with fresh green citrus.