Tenjaku Japanese Whisky

This well-made, reasonably priced Japanese whiskey with no age statement features a pleasingly perfumed wood character, both aged and fresh, with an unexpectedly pleasant, slightly medicinal wood alcohol hint reminiscent of a Macallan Edition 4. (Perhaps it's Edition 3, as distinguishing them is difficult. I've sampled 3, 4, and potentially number 1.) The lack of complexity in the aromas and flavors doesn't detract for me. My palate doesn't detect subtle nuances like "a whisper of Scottish whimsy and berry-mincemeat fruit pie," only robust (even bold and overwhelming) scents and tastes. Compared to this Japanese whiskey, Macallan Editions hold up well -- a significant compliment to the maker, considering it costs around $35 in Michigan while any Macallan Edition was over $105 (an exact price I recall from the store owner) in Fall, 2021. Generally, my experiences with whiskey from Japan have been positive! (A word of advice for tasters: explore the wide world of sakis, because the harsh, overwhelming stuff sold here as sake is such a poor imitation, it might only barely resemble the vast variety that exists!) Hibiki's Toki is a candidate for my list of "daily drinkers". Hibiki Japanese Harmony is undeniably the best option under $85-100 around here, and after purchasing three bottles, I stand firm on that assertion, rooted deeply. I've heard the 21-year is exceptionally flavorful, complex, and superb in all aspects.

Aroma: Hints of plastic sheeting, linen, a touch of rubber, some leafy/grassy notes, unripe pear, and possibly a faint band-aid scent. Subtle green grape notes are also present. Palate: Sweeter than anticipated, quite well-rounded. I concur with a friend's observation of banana bread, and it's quite creamy too. A very slight peppery quality. Finish: I must agree with a friend's description of 'creamy oak spice and floral elderflower' for the finish. Overall: I'm puzzled by negative online reviews. I find it quite agreeable! The rubbery aroma doesn't bother me, and I think the palate is nice for those who enjoy something leaning towards sweetness without being overwhelming. Another pleasant surprise; it would be interesting to experience this at a higher alcohol strength. It might be a bit thin, but I'd happily drink it again! After having the Hatozaki Pure Malt, this served as a welcome sweet contrast to its pepperiness.

This is a decent whiskey, but it doesn't quite match the smoothness of other Japanese whiskeys I've had. It has a light character throughout, suggesting it might not be aged for a long period. The aroma is quite subtle, with some fruit and floral notes. It remains light on the palate, with a touch of sweetness. The finish isn't particularly long and it's not as smooth as other Japanese whiskeys. This spirit is acceptable on its own, but I suspect it would also be excellent for mixing.

This Japanese blend is surprisingly smooth and sweet. The aroma offers ginger and vanilla, smoked salmon (in a pleasant way), and a trace of 'an old vinyl record case'. It feels very soft on the palate but could use a bit more flavor while in the mouth. A slight hint of licorice and ginger, finished with vanilla sugar. Very smooth. No warming sensation at all. The flavor emerges later: a pleasant aftertaste of light beer, vanilla, and pancake. Extremely drinkable, perfect for daily enjoyment.

The nose presents pear and butterscotch. I also detect strong floral notes, though I can't identify specific ones. There's a faint liquor-like aroma, perhaps. Upon tasting, it's certainly light and almost airy. Pinpointing specific flavors is challenging. Herbal notes are present, but they remain a mystery to me.

Aroma after resting: pear, papaya, pineapple, apple, ginger, with a faint scent. Citrus, some herbal spice, vanilla. Flavor: starts with sweet tree fruit, transitions to exotic fruit, orange, then concludes with a spicy, vanilla, tropical, peppery finish.