Yamazaki 12 Year

We're trying to beef up our Japanese whisky collection (and posts) to reflect the growing popularity of drams from the Rising Sun. Unfortunately, Japanese whiskies are pretty hard to find outside of the country which is why they are not very well reviewed generally. Anyhow, let's continue with the basic Suntory Yamazaki 12 year which is fairly easy to find in most bars and shops worldwide.

THE REVIEW

Comments: Maybe we're biased towards Japanese whiskies but this was a very good and easy to drink. It mimics a typical Scotch but with the touch of Japanese refinement. Keep one for your everyday collection!

Ballantine's Finest

A blend! It has been awhile since we sampled one (I think our Suntory Hibiki series was the last one) and we've sampled quite a few fancy blends before (Royal Salute series, Middleton, JW Blue Label). I also remember that the Ballentine's 17 year was also one of our first few reviews and we ranked it quite favourably. Now, let's see how it's 'younger brother' stacks up.

THE REVIEW

Comments: Scorched plastic was what we used to describe this. The nose was decent enough but the taste and finish was pretty and disappointing.

Glenmorangie The Nectar D'Or

The Nectar D'Or is the updated version of the popular Sauternes finish by Glenmorangie. As you recall from our previous post on Glenmorangie's attempts at Wood Finish, we were not impressed. However, given that we are impartial to Sauternes (who isn't), we were quite excited to try this one out.

THE REVIEW

Comments: The fruity aroma hits the nose immediately and begs you to savour the dram. Apricots and citrus dominate the taste followed by strong hints of oak. A very delicious and easy after dinner drink indeed. We now know why this is selling very well for Glenmorangie.