Review by: Whiskery Turnip
Distillery: Asaka.
Bottler: Distillery.
Region: Japanese Single Malt.
ABV: 61%.
Age: 6 Years. Distilled in July 2018. Bottled in Sept. 2024.
Cask type: 2nd Fill Bourbon Barrel.
Nose: Fruity and spirited, pineapple and coconut, youthful with peppery spirit, orange cream candies, cinnamon sticks, citrusy creamy hard candies, buttery poundcake at times.
Palate: Medium-bodied, oily, youthful and spirited, peppery, tangerine and orange candies, lime zest, subtle licorice and cinnamon, hints of kaya jam, citrusy-creamy curd, hibiscus and berry syrup.
Finish: Medium to long with dried fruits, citrusy candies, and subtle herbal tea.
Mental Image: Pre-Homework Snack Time.
Conclusion: Another strong showing from Asaka! I was impressed by the big sherry bomb I tried last year, truly remarkable considering that is not a style I enjoy. Yet, that whisky did not tell me much about the malt itself, it was seemingly all cask. This was a more subtle affair— insofar as a fiery and spirited youngster can be subtle. The tropical and spicy elements of the malt stood out and I loved how the creamier aspects of the whisky came together with some bright citrus. Overall, a delight from Asaka— I cannot wait to try something a bit older and more well-rounded.
Final Score: 78.
Scoring Legend:
- 95-100: As good as it gets. Jaw-dropping, eye-widening, unforgettable whisky.
- 90-94: Sublime, a personal favorite in its category.
- 85-89: Excellent, a standout dram.
- 80-84: Quite good. Quality stuff.
- 75-79: Decent whisky worth tasting.
- 70-74: Meh. It’s definitely drinkable, but it can do better.
- 60-69: Not so good. I might not turn down a glass if I needed a drink.
- 50-59: Save it for mixing.
- 0-49: Blech.
Malt Runners 