Fukano Vault Reserve 2

I'm usually not a big enthusiast of Japanese Whisky. It tends to be a little thin and more similar to scotch than I prefer. A friend shared a sample, suggesting it was a bit sweeter and closer to a high-rye bourbon. Nose: It smells like a garden full of flowers with a hint of vanilla. I detect notes of gardenia and a touch of sweet pea. Palate: Vanilla is the most prominent flavor. I also get honeysuckle and a subtle black tea note. I'd also say it has a more 'bourbony' character and a taste like cornflakes. Towards the end, I notice a bitterness and a fresh woodiness, which is common in most Japanese whiskies and not to my liking. Finish: A medium finish for a spirit under 100 proof. It provides a warming sensation and has a sweet and sour dynamic. Overall: It neither converted me nor repulsed me. It's merely acceptable. That said, I don't have many Japanese whiskies to compare it against.

A sophisticated blended Japanese whisky from Fukano Distillery in Hitayoshi, Kyushu, Japan, created from rice, aged in casks for 3 to 11 years, and vatted to mature for up to 16 years. Bottled at 40.4% ABV in 3,850 uniquely shaped bottles. It opens with floral notes of jasmine, flamed zest, almond, and orange blossom honey; a delicate yet complex middle introduces notes of Sherry, caramel, and butterscotch, leading to a robust finish with hints of flan, vanilla, and orange. April 2021 / August 2022

Subtle vanilla and butterscotch on the nose. The palate leads with brown sugar, then a touch of orange peel. Spice and barrel notes emerge on the finish. As someone who enjoys bourbon, this is my top pick from Fukano.

The full sherry aging process results in a smoother and mellower profile than the reserve 1. Notes of tea and honey are present.

Very enjoyable; sweet but not excessively so.

Sweet and spicy, reminding me of an Irish whiskey.