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millwatermaltofthemonth This month we have a taste of Japan; a single malt whisky that is reasonably priced and can be picked up from a number of outlets. We found ours at Tokyo Liquor in Sylvia Park, who also have stores in Newmarket and in the CBD, but it’s retailed elsewhere too. Japanese single malt whisky can sometimes appear relatively expensive when bought in New Zealand, so it was a pleasant surprise to find the Suntory Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve for well under $100. This is a fairly new (2014) offering from Suntory and has a screw cap, so I can imagine some single malt purists wrinkling their noses at the idea – but remember what has happened to corks in wine bottles… Although the Distiller’s reserve is a single malt, it is produced from a combination of different casks – different in both age and style of wood – all from the Hakushu distillery that lies to the Northwest of Mount Fuji. We used the Norlan glass that was reviewed in last month’s magazine and remain convinced that it’s a great whisky glass. Nose: Vanilla-tinged honey, cedar wood and juicy raisins. Lighter notes of crushed almonds and dry hay. Very light peat notes, slightly medicinal yet covered in more floral honey. Palate: Honey and dried fruit to start, with a slightly oily mouthfeel. Cocoa-tinged fruit and woody spice, freshly-grated ginger. A subtle touch of white pepper, with a nice swell of mild peat and smoke towards the end. Finish: A nice combination of citrus sweetness and complex tannins linger with oak, cedar, and drying spice, cardamom, white pepper and raw clove. That wisp of smoke from the nose and palate gracefully wafts through the finish as well. Yoi uisukī 良いウイスキー (Good Whisky)
TheTail ofWinter The Tail of Winter’s stinging rain Reminded us that, once again Our early planting (fingers crossed) Can be a dream – a hope that’s lost. But Spring’s arrived, new lambs are jumping The sap in trees and bushes pumping Bursting buds and flowers scented Goodbye to Winter – you’re not lamented!
Anon
