Hinomaru Whisky Signature 1823 (70cl, 48%)

Hinomaru Whisky Signature 1823 is a commemorative single malt from Kiuchi Brewing and Distilling, made to mark the 200th anniversary of the company's founding. It is distilled at the Yasato Distillery at the foot of Mount Tsukuba, from locally grown Hitachino barley, and bottled at 48% in a 70cl bottle. The whisky matures in a combination of bourbon, sherry and rum barrels, and has a bright golden colour. The nose is floral, with chamomile and saffron alongside vanilla, toasted cereal and peach. On the palate come ripe apricot, gingerbread and honeyed sweetness with a mineral edge, and the rum barrels add a hint of tropical warmth.