Kurayoshi 12 Year Pure Malt Whisky

During a Kurayoshi tasting, I sampled the Sherry Cask, 12yo, and 18yo. This one ended up being the least impressive of the group. While it's not a terrible whisky, it doesn't leave a lasting impression. Kurayoshi is actually a blended malt (known as pure malt in Japan) combining Scottish and Japanese whiskies from the Matsui distillery. Bottled at 43% ABV. The aroma is reminiscent of a Speyside whisky, with a subtle earthy undertone (a characteristic I noticed in all Kurayoshis). It presents full citrus notes, toffee, grapefruit, and a potent alcohol presence, along with passion fruit. The scent is earthy and citrusy, with notes of raw rice and a floral aroma like an inexpensive taxi air freshener. On the palate, it's a bit too direct but still pleasant. Flavors include dulce de leche (toffee), citrus, and pepper. The finish is intriguing. It has an earthy, muddy quality, hints of ginger, and is quite dry. Overall, this whisky is decent but lacks soul. It seems intended to contend with other 12-year-old whiskies in the market, and in that regard, it's a solid option. Score: 77/100.

A full-bodied Japanese Pure Malt Whisky from Matsui Shuzo Distillery, located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, near Mount Daisen. This spirit is crafted using spring water naturally filtered by volcanic rock. It's a fusion of 100% malted barley Whisky originating from Scotland and Japan, matured in new, lightly scorched oak barrels for 12 years. Its initial aroma presents hints of vanilla toffee, cozy roasted nuts, and malt. The palate unfolds with flavors of green apple, pear, raisins, toasted wood, and a touch of sour cherry. The finish is smooth and subtle, featuring notes of chocolate, earthiness, and smoke. July 2019 / August 2022

Aroma: Vanilla beans and rich dark chocolate are prominent. I'm not detecting any peat, but I just finished a rather peaty spirit. Taste: Apple skins were a surprise, accompanied by gentle nuts and a smooth oily texture. It transitions into a mild burn with some spices. Finish: Spices and warmth on the tongue, with vanilla and caramel providing a smoothing effect. Very faint wisps of peat or smoke with a touch of sea salt.

Aroma: sherry and apricot scent, akin to Macallan, with caramel and pepper Body: medium Palate: malt, vanilla Finish: medium Note: this one is average, lacking sufficient body. I suppose I don't understand the excitement surrounding these Japanese malts. They seem underwhelming to me. And again, more rice.

Woody earthy slight fruity in the nose hints of scotch, full mouth feel that’s quite tasty. More heat than I would like in the end. Slight smoke comes through late that adds to the experience after the heat dissipates. Overall a good pour. Thanks a friend!

The cherry and vanilla come through right from the start. There is a spicy middle that fades into a quick finish. There is a hint of peat in the finish. I’d buy this at $40-$50. But I don’t think I’d spend much more than that.