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

Distiller's Reserve is a Japanese single malt from Hakushu, the distillery Keizo Saji founded in 1973 as Suntory's second. It stands in forest on Mount Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Southern Alps and ferments in wooden washbacks. The whisky is an official Suntory bottling, pale gold, at 43% ABV in a 70cl bottle. It is chill-filtered and coloured. Its character is fresh and herbal, with citrus and a restrained hint of smoke. The nose shows peppermint, melon and cucumber. On the palate yuzu and grapefruit meet lemon thyme, and the finish fades with a delicate smokiness.