Kirin Fuji Sanroku Signature Blend

During my research semester in Paris as a grad student in Chemical Engineering, I noticed that European students graduate without the immense student debt common in America. In fact, they graduate debt-free. They receive an equally high-quality education but pay a fraction of the tuition, around $5,000 annually compared to the $30k-$50k per year in the US. The reason? Their universities aren't sprawling complexes with vast green areas, massive stadiums, or luxury dorms and gyms rivaling NYC condos. Their cafeterias even put Portland's food truck scene to shame. You get the idea. This blended Japanese whisky, priced at just under $50, is comparable in quality to more expensive Japanese whiskies that come in ornate bottles, are presented with models for social media appeal (I'm looking at you, Dekanta), and feature elaborate Japanese calligraphy on their wooden boxes. It presents delicate floral aromas, reminiscent of hyacinths and peonies, likely from the grain. The palate leans towards darker fruits, possibly with some sherry-finished malt. Regardless, it's exceptionally good for a $50 Japanese whisky. It's been a long time since I've tried something new, as my friends have kept me well-supplied with samples. I doubt you can find this in the US or Europe/UK, but if you see it for $50, definitely buy it.

A gift from Mt. Fuji, according to legend. This is an interesting dram from Kirin Fuji-Gotemba Distillery, bottled at 50% ABV and non-chill-filtered. It costs around ¥5000. It's diluted with water sourced from Mt. Fuji's snowcaps that flows into a nearby spring. Nose: Strong malt and vanilla, with slight peat and oak. Palate: Upon arrival, it's creamy and sweet, then presents strong wood tannin notes, initially slightly bitter. A light peat note accompanies a sweet oak, honey, pepper, and floral taste. I also detect notes similar to Rye spice. Finish: Medium and oily mouthfeel. A dry, peaty aftertaste with lingering spice notes. It's reminiscent of Rye and Bourbon, with a distinct sweet oak remainder and strong ethanol presence.

Nose: brown sugar, honey, malty grain character, citrus, lighter orchard fruits, floral notes, baking spices, oak, a touch of vanilla, not highly complex. Palate: largely reflects the nose, with some bitter herbal notes, white pepper spice that develops into an ashy char. The finish is medium in length and dry. For a blend, it's acceptable. Definitely not the worst I've sampled.

Nice and rich, with subtle oak and grain flavors, and a hint of salt. More complex than the standard version, and considerably richer than typical Japanese offerings. Excellent flavor balance, though the high proof makes it somewhat assertive.

An intriguing blend of flavors: some smoke, vanilla, and fruit reminiscent of Scotch, contrasted by pepper, spice, and tannins. It's slightly harsh with occasional flavor clashes, but offers good depth and complexity.

Sweet and maple-like. Riverside Kitchen & Bar リバーサイドキッチン＆バー | Riverside Kitchen&Bar Hakone