Hakushu – Distiller's Reserve (70cl, 43%)

Hakushu Distiller's Reserve is a Japanese single malt from Suntory's Hakushu Distillery, in a 70cl bottle at 43%. It replaced the Hakushu 12 year old in 2014, when stocks of aged Hakushu single malt came under pressure. It combines fairly young lightly peated and heavily peated Hakushu spirits, including some aged in old refill bourbon casks. The nose brings peppermint, melon and cucumber. The palate offers yuzu, grapefruit and lemon thyme, followed by a refreshing finish with subtle smoke.