Yamazakura Blended Whisky Singapore Edition (70cl, 43%)

A Japanese blended whisky made by Sasanokawa Shuzo in collaboration with Shin Group, in a 70cl bottle at 43% ABV. It is a Singapore edition, blended from four malt and grain whiskies aged in bourbon casks. The name joins yama, meaning mountain, with sakura, the cherry tree. It has no added colour and is non-chill-filtered. Sasanokawa Shuzo was founded in 1765 and received its whisky licence in 1946. It describes itself as the oldest whisky distillery in the Tohoku area. The nose has pears, vanilla and floral notes, with light smoke and a sweet malty tone. The palate is round and fruity, with vanilla, chocolate and a hint of spice. The finish is cotton candy with a slightly woody aftertaste.