Writers' Tears Copper Pot Japanese Mizunara Cask Finish

As anticipated (for those following along), I compared the Writers' Tears Mizunara Cask directly with the Chivas Regal Mizunara. My initial assumptions proved correct: the spirits are comparable, yet the Chivas Regal is priced at $50 while the Writers' Tears is $100. Firstly, I must state that the Writers' Tears presents better today than I recalled from yesterday, for reasons unknown. I do perceive more fruity floral characteristics with a woody smokiness towards the end (perhaps it does carry a sandalwood incense scent? 😅). As previously observed, there remains an off-putting harshness to this spirit. I also detected a cinnamon-like sharpness in the finish - but it's artificial, akin to cinnamon candy. In contrast, the Chivas has a more mossy and less appealing nose - however, its mouthfeel and taste are noticeably superior. My partner joined me for this comparison tonight, and she concurs. The Chivas is smoother and sweeter. I detect a honey-like quality (possibly mirin?) along with nuttiness. There's also a subtle oceanic note that rounds out the overall experience. Honestly, I find this (the Chivas) much more enjoyable than I remembered liking it previously.

I've wanted this bottle for a long time, and... it's just okay. Not worth the $99 price tag. I'll try it again later after the bottle has had time to open up (and I want to compare it to the Chivas Regal Mizunara, which was significantly cheaper), but I need to call out one thing... The tasting notes from the box claim: "Flashes of green fruits, apple and pear, hints of vanilla and clove over a distinctive pot still base give way to the exotic oriental notes of sandalwood, coconut, spice and Japanese incense."...That's complete bullshit! 🤣 'Exotic oriental notes? Japanese Incense?' Give me a break 🙄 Marketing was really pushing it on this one.

Precisely as anticipated: a bit more complexity added to the standard Writers' Tears. Nose: sandalwood, sharp, warming spices, sweet. Melon. Citrus. Palate: initially soft, biscuity/grainy. Sweet. Juicy in the middle then pungent. Finish: intense briefly, then woody, slightly drying. Ginger. Sweetness and dryness linger longer. Adding water introduces vanilla to the nose and softens the palate somewhat. Ginger persists longer on the finish.

The variety of flavors from one sip to the next, or whether enjoyed neat, with ice, or diluted, is boundless. An excellent sipping spirit that provides an enjoyable drinking experience with its shifting flavor profile. Regardless of how it's consumed, no one can accuse this spirit of being dull.

It causes a tingling sensation on the tongue and lips but doesn't sting the throat. It's sweet but not excessively so. Subtle apple notes. I'd still consider it mild. Very enjoyable.

Lavender, moss, citrus notes