The Yamazaki 18 Years Old

The Yamazaki 18 has been a firm favourite of awards panels for a while. It has also become more difficult to find at source, frequently changing hands at high prices through auctions , etc.

One of the easier methods of getting a bottle is by purchasing the above limited edition at a Japanese airport. The only difference is in the bottle and packaging.

Tasting notes from reviewers:

http://thewhiskeyjug.com/japanese-whisky/yamazaki-18-review/

NOSE
Rich fruit, soft warm pastries, buttery caramel, vanilla, malt, spice and a touch of oak and ash. This is a lovely aroma.

PALATE
The palate keeps the rich full theme moving along with notes of fruit, malt, char, dark sweets, vanilla, toasted grain, nuts and again a touch of oak but this time accompanied by some spice.

FINISH
Long fruity drawl interspersed with pockets of malt, nuts, spice and oak.

BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
Well balanced, full round body and a slick, coating, almost oily feel.

http://www.whiskypapa.com/yamazaki-18-year-old-whisky-91100

Nose: 21/25. This whisky is unique in that its nose is described more in terms of texture than of actual smell. The nose is thick and even oily, with a staying power that cannot be ignored. However, it is a highly enjoyable smell, with citrus elements and sherry followed by oak and green earth.

Palate: 23/25. You’ll definitely notice the signature peat and smoke elements, but your first impression of the Yamazaki 18 will be not the taste, but the texture. It is rich and viscous, so much so that it almost feels heavy on your tongue. The first tastes are those of nuts and honey, but they are followed by a spicy and wine-y taste. There is even a hint of dried cherry and dates along with some smokiness. This is such a complex whisky that it is hard to describe the waves of flavor that will wash over you from the first taste.

Finish: 24/25. As any whisky drinker knows, dry can mean any one of several things, from a bitter taste that sucks the saliva from your mouth to a pleasantly warm dry feeling. The finish of the Yamazaki 18 year falls into the latter category, with a long and dry yet definitely enjoyable finish that will exceed all expectations. It is warm and dry in a sunny, crisp way that will not disappoint. Malt is one of the final elements along with smoke, salt, and spices.

Character: 23/25. The Yamazaki 18 year is strikingly similar to a Highland Park 18 year in its rich complexity—which is quite a compliment if you have ever tasted the Highland Park 18. From its copper color to its

Overall Rating for Yamazaki 18 Year Old Whisky: 91/100.