Yamazaki – Puncheon 2020 Edition Japanese Single Malt Whisky (70cl, 48%)

This is a Yamazaki single malt from the distillery's 2020 limited edition series, released in November 2020. It is bottled at 48%, in a 70cl bottle, and has a pale gold colour. It was matured in puncheons made of American oak and coopered by Suntory. At 480 litres, these casks are larger than the usual ex-bourbon barrel, so maturation is slower. The nose brings green apple, vanilla and acacia honey. The palate is mellow and mild with butterscotch, and the finish is oaky with a subtle sweetness.