Yamazakura Asaka Distillery 2023 Edition Single Malt (70cl, 50%)

This is the 2023 edition single malt from Asaka Distillery, part of Sasanokawa Shuzo in Japan. It is bottled at 50% ABV in a 70cl bottle and was largely matured in Bourbon barrels. It is the distillery's single malt release for 2023 and won a Silver Medal at the Tokyo Wine & Spirits Competition 2024. The nose is described as fresh grapes, green apples and baked cookie. On the palate come vanilla sponge cake, honey, melon drops, buttery citrus and plums, followed by a finish of subtle smoke and lingering malty cereals.