Nikka Miyagikyo Single Malt

Finally time to start opening some bottles from the collection before my wife starts counting them. Single malt comparison: Auchentoshan 12, Cragganmore 12 and Nikka Miyagikyo. All tasted in glen cairn glass and rested for about 30 minutes. Let's Miyagikyo! I should also mention this is my first time trying a Japanese single malt. Can someone tell the emperor to lower the damned prices! Nose: Pears, apple blossoms, and a hint of malt. A very delicate floral scent. Palate: Thin mouthfeel that starts very light but grows. Orchard fruits and a decent amount of smoke. Like a burnt tarte tatin. Finish: Lengthy, floral and warm. There's a lot going on here and I can't quite figure it all out. All I know is that this is a heck of a solid dram. I can only imagine how great this would be with a bit more age. I guess the emperor can charge whatever the hell he wants, because I get why people want this stuff. Final results of the comparison: 1st place: Miyagikyo 2nd place: Auchentoshan 12 3rd place: Cragganmore 12 Katana beats the broadsword. Palate:

The initial aroma is incredible, featuring bananas, apple, and honey with a touch of peat. A second pass reveals chili, oak, and cashews. It's complex yet clear and gentle. On the palate, it starts with oak and honey, like sawdust and sweetness. Bananas are present, along with chili and pear. The finish is moderately long, with chili and honey lingering. This bottle offers a superb balance of flavor and enjoyment. It's smooth and complex, making for an easy-drinking dram. However, for the cost, comparable options from Scotland offer better value.

The nose is understated; floral notes, mango and banana. On the taste it has a creamy, soft mouthfeel. Gentle tropical fruits and spongecake. There are no harsh edges here despite the lack of age statement - it feels like there is some older whisky in this. There's a nicely balanced sweetness with a touch of sour in the development, with grass and cereal notes. The finish is a little dry and short. Overall this is an enjoyably gentle and restrained dram. Maybe not for those that enjoy a little drama in their whisky, but it's undeniably well put together.

Nose: Light, bright, and floral single malt aroma. Very inviting. There might be a subtle sherry influence, but I detect no smoke. Palate: Smooth and light, with minimal burn. Very easy to drink, though not particularly captivating. This could serve as a good introduction to Japanese whisky. It's well-crafted, but won't particularly impress you in any aspect. Finish: Quite short and doesn't introduce any new elements beyond the palate.

An easy-to-drink spirit with fruit, malt, and spice. It's not as delightful as the Coffey offerings but remains a solid choice. The malt is prominent, with ginger and cinnamon notes. Though it's on the lighter side, it still delivers a full spectrum from sweet to tobacco to spicy heat. The finish is brief but leaves a tropical and nutty taste.

The crisp taste is typical of a Japanese Scotch mash. The smoky aroma is delightful even before it reaches your nose. The nose is less intense than anticipated, and the finish is mild, but it's something you can savor for a long time. Perfectly suited for sipping all evening.