Yamazakura Asaka Bourbon Cask Matured 2023 Release (70cl, 46%)

A Japanese single malt from the Asaka distillery, made by Yamazakura from 100% malted barley and aged for 3 years in bourbon barrels. It is bottled at 46% ABV in a 70cl bottle, and is neither chill-filtered nor coloured. Yamazakura is made by Sasanokawa Shuzo, a company that began as a sake brewery in Fukushima Prefecture. The name combines 'yama', meaning mountains, with 'zakura', for the cherry trees of the Tohoku area. The nose offers plum, wildflower honey and bourbon vanilla. On the palate there is a velvety texture with orange marmalade, vanilla and French toast. The finish is smooth and lasting, with slightly spicy cereal notes and hints of candied fruit.