Yamazaki 18

Hailing from the oldest distillery in Japan, the 18 year old single malt was originally launched in 1992. Although at one stage fairly freely available and reasonably-priced, this release is now without doubt, one of the most sought after whiskies in the world. A very limited number are released each year, and even less find their way to retail shelves with the vast majority going to whisky bars and restaurants across the globe. Around 80% of the liquid is matured in sherry butts, while the remaining whisky spent its years in American and Mizunara Japanese oak casks. Bottled at 43%.

Nose: Raisin, apricot, cafe au lait and Mizunara.

Palate: Blackberry, strawberry jam and dark chocolate.

Finish: Long, spicy and smooth.