The next generation of Yamazaki
The Yamazaki Distillers Reserve was introduced in Spring 2014 to showcase the Yamazaki’s range of young talent, supported by their more veteran whiskies.
In developing the Yamazaki Distillers Reserve, the Yamazaki distillers proved that age is not the sole parameter in determining quality, delivering a truly exceptional Japanese ‘No Age Statement’ whisky without taboo.
Taste Profile
It is smooth, and easy-to-drink, with sweet strawberry notes, consisting of whiskies aged 8 to 20 years old. It has Yamazaki sherry cask malt whiskies (aged approximately 20 years) to add complexity and create dried fruit notes in addition to Japanese oak (Mizunara) malt whiskies. This was used to harmonize the contrasting flavours, providing an innovative round-body and depth, characteristic of The Yamazaki.
Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or as a Highball for the ultimate Japanese whisky experience.
Feedback
The complex layering of sweet, spicy, bitter and citrus flavours. The smooth texture and lack of burn. The oaky and sugary finish. Don’t let the no-age-statement and low price deceive you about its quality. This is an excellent whisky by any measure and can easily be compared to much pricier whiskies.
From Caskstrength:
Nose: A lightness hits first, with subtle vanilla and lemon zest, leading into fresh strawberries, a little milk chocolate and some golden syrup. There is also an emerging spicy/incense note, which develops with the addition of water.
Palate: The fruit becomes more intense, with fresh fleshy white peaches, a hint of raspberry, a dryer oaky note, vanilla essence and a twist of lemon zest. It is vibrant and youthful, but still full of fabulous character.
Finish: Sweeter fruity notes linger, with an overall tannic background.
Overall: A superb start. This encompasses all the hallmarks of the 12 year old Yamazaki, but leads it into a new fresher styling.
Bootleggers View
We think the Yamazaki Distillers Reserve offers good value in light of the ever increasing price of Japanese whiskies in the market. For those who have tried the Yamazaki 12 and are not quite ready to shell out the big bucks for the Yamazaki 18 (which btw is awesome), the Yamazaki Distillers Reserve is a good lateral expansion while staying within the Yamazaki range.
In all honestly, we love them all. That’s why we carry the full range in our portfolio. No other brand in the last 5 years have captivated our hearts as the Yamazaki range and so more Yamazaki is great!
In the meantime, enjoy the tour of the Yamazaki Distillery in the video below.
