OHISHI ISLAY CASK FINISH WHISKY 43.3% 750ML JAPANESE WHISKY; DISTILLED FROM RICE

Ohishi Islay Cask Whisky – No big surprise here: This is Ohishi’s Brandy Cask whisky, fully matured then finished for 8 months in a former Islay Scotch cask. This combination presents an immediately curious combination of aromas and flavors. The nose is immediately smoky, but also sweet, with a barbecue sauce kick and notes of slightly muddy river vegetation. The palate is a different animal, offering a meaty character up-front followed by notes of raisins and plum wine. The smoke becomes more evident as the finish develops, which brings a lighter hand of peat to bear on the fruitier elements of the palate. A little weird, but quite a fun little spirit.