Hakushu Sherry Cask 2012

Hakushu Sherry Cask 2012, NAS, 48 %

Suntory releases special limited editions in a wood expression series 'almost' annually, for both their Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries. I write 'almost', because there are slight variations from year to year, and it would seem none have been released this year. If anyone knows more, then please enlighten me!

The Hakushu Sherry Cask 2012 has no age statement, this goes for all releases in this series. It is a lightly peated spirit, and it has been matured exclusively in sherry casks.

The Hakushu Sherry Cask 2012 was released in a limited run of 4300 bottles, and sold out quite quickly. The selling price in the UK at the time was GBP 60. If you want to pick up a bottle at an online auction now you will probably have to pay in the region of GBP 600+! That is insane!

Nose (23/25): Incredibly rich with a depth to match the Mariana Trench. Earthy, full, complex, tons of tempered sherry notes. Nuts, raisins, plums, honey all drenched in sublime and mature sherry, left to marinate for a loooong time in an ancient wooden bowl. Wow!

Taste (23/25): Super smooth but also a bit challenging. Still very rich and complex. Dried fruits, honey and nuts are still very much present. Adding a new dimension we have ginger, cinnamon, white pepper, nutmeg and sandal wood.

Finish (24/25): Thick as honey, sweet and dark. There is a hint of maple syrup now, a touch of that gentle bitterness or burnt note. Slightly acidic. Long and lingering finish. Right at the end I get these wonderful minty notes. Peppermint. Really tickles the tongue.

Balance (23/25): Wow! No wonder I am a big fan of Japanese whisky. This is a dram with fantastic balance, maturity and harmony.

Score (92/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas