Yamazakura Brandy Cask Finish Pure Malt Whisky (70cl, 46%)

This is a Japanese pure malt from Yamazakura, the distillery of Sasanokawa Shuzo, bottled at 46% in a 70cl bottle. The whisky spent about six years in bourbon barrels and a further year finishing in brandy casks, giving it an age of about seven years. Only 300 bottles were released. The nose is sweet and fruity, with hints of malt and a little smoke. On the palate come dried prunes alongside the sourness of green grapes, with malty notes and tannins, followed by a pleasant, lingering finish.