The Yamazaki 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky

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Tasting Note:

Appearance: This The Yamazaki 12 Year Old boasts a pure gold color, hinting at its time spent maturing in oak casks. The clarity of the spirit suggests a smooth and refined character.
Aroma: The nose opens with a complex and inviting bouquet. A wave of sweet and fruity notes dominates, with hints of peach, pineapple, and grapefruit. Underlying these are subtle hints of spice, like clove and nutmeg, along with a touch of candied orange peel. A whisper of vanilla and the signature Mizunara oak, known for its delicate sandalwood and cedar notes, complete the aromatic profile.
Palate: The first sip offers a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and wood. The initial sweetness echoes the fruity notes from the aroma, quickly giving way to a wave of warming spice. The Mizunara oak influence becomes more prominent on the palate, offering hints of cedar and sandalwood that add complexity. A subtle coconut creaminess emerges mid-palate, hinting at the influence of ex-bourbon casks used in the maturation process. The overall mouthfeel is smooth and medium-bodied.
Finish: The finish is medium-length and satisfying. Lingering notes of spice, cedar, and a touch of honey fade slowly, leaving a gentle warmth on the palate.

Overall, The Yamazaki 12 Year Old is a well-crafted and balanced Japanese whisky. The delicate interplay of sweet fruitiness, warming spice, and the unique character of Mizunara oak creates a truly memorable experience. This smooth and approachable whisky is a great choice for sipping neat, savoring on the rocks, or using as a base for classic cocktails.

Food Pairing:

The Yamazaki 12 Year Old’s complex and balanced flavor profile offers a variety of exciting food pairing possibilities. Here are some delicious options to complement its sweet, spicy, and woody notes:

Savory Pairings:

Seared Fatty Fish: The sweetness of the whisky cuts through the richness of seared salmon, tuna, or yellowtail. The delicate smoky notes of the Yamazaki can further enhance the flavor of the fish.
Grilled Meats: Grilled steak, lamb chops, or chicken pair well with Yamazaki. The whisky’s sweetness complements the smoky char from grilling, while the oaky notes add complexity.
Japanese Cuisine: Yamazaki is a natural companion to Japanese dishes. Try it with sushi, sashimi, or yakitori (grilled skewered chicken). The whisky’s delicate flavors won’t overpower the subtle nuances of the food.
Creamy Cheeses: The sweetness and spice of Yamazaki can create a delightful contrast with the creaminess of cheeses like brie or camembert.

Sweet Pairings:

Dark Chocolate: The sweetness and oaky notes of Yamazaki complement the richness of dark chocolate. Explore different cacao percentages to find your perfect match.
Fruit and Nut Mixes: A mix of dried fruits (cranberries, apricots) and nuts (almonds, walnuts) offers a textural and flavor contrast to the Yamazaki. The sweetness of the fruit complements the whisky, while the nuts add a touch of savory richness.