The Shinobu Blended Whisky Mizunara Japanese Oak Finish (70cl, 43%)

The Shinobu is a Japanese blended whisky made in Niigata and bottled at 43% in a 70cl bottle. It combines 50% malt and 50% grain whisky, selected from different distilleries by the blender, Mr. Usami. The whiskies are first held in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, then finished in Japanese Mizunara oak. It is natural in colour and non-chill-filtered. On the nose are butter, coconut candy, mint, grass and wood. The palate is smooth and a little oily, with butter, vanilla and a hint of Chinese incense, and the finish brings sandalwood and vanilla.