Hakata 16 Year Sherry Cask

The aroma offers earthy, umami, and sherry characteristics. The palate is quite an experience. Chocolate, umami, oak, stewed pears, and a tannic sherry create an elegant journey that engages all the taste receptors as it's consumed. However, the sherry is a bit too dominant for the price. Additionally, an unusual sour note from the koji (pear) subtly evokes sake (koji-fermented 100% barley), which might be a deal-breaker for some. I can understand why critics give it high scores, but I recognize not everyone will appreciate it. So, is it worth it? A difficult question. I compared it to the sherry-bomb Glendronach CS, and the Glendronach was superior, brighter, and more immediately enjoyable. But this is for collectors seeking something unique and more enigmatic, and in that regard, it succeeds. I don't regret the purchase and anticipate how its character might evolve with subsequent tastings (I will update if there are changes).

Aroma - Prunes, raisins, dark soy sauce, dark chocolate Taste - Prunes, raisins, cherry juice, sweet savory soy sauce, dark chocolate, damp oak Finish - Light sweet/bitter, prunes, raisins, cherry juice Score - 82/100 Final Thoughts - The aroma on this one felt very, very similar to the 10 and the 12, but strangely felt a bit more muted. On the palate it felt a bit brighter like cherry/pomegranate juice. The savory nature of this malt came through once again with this dark soy vibe, but something about this felt a bit off near the end and through to the finish. It had this almost, but not quite, metallic vibe that threw things off a bit. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - No NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.