Akkeshi Taisetsu Single Malt 2022 / 21st Season

Volume: 700ml / ABV: 55%

Akkeshi Taisetsu Single Malt 2022, also known as "The Great Snowfall," is a distinctive Japanese whisky produced by the Akkeshi Distillery. This whisky is part of the distillery's Twenty-Four Solar Terms series, which is inspired by the traditional East Asian lunisolar calendar that marks the year's seasonal changes.

Akkeshi Taisetsu Single Malt 2022 is bottled at 55.0% ABV. It is presented in a 750ml bottle, reflecting the distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The whisky is noted for its unique character, which is influenced by the local climate and distillation practices that aim to emulate the renowned smoky style of Islay whiskies.

Tasting Note

Nose

• The aroma is characterised by barley and sour cream, with a spicy, dry wood note that is not immediately identifiable as bourbon, sherry, or any of the more common types.
• There are also hints of dill and something meaty, which become more pronounced with the addition of water. Additionally, faint poster glue, sweet pears, and faint rubber bands can be detected.
• A strong citrus element is present, with the taste of fruits that represent winter, mainly citrus fruits, slowly emerging.

Palate

• The palate experiences a persistent wood taste that is unique and does not remind one of anything Scottish. The peat is more noticeable here, but it is still subtle, estimated at around 10ppm.
• The mouthfeel is described as superficial, and the taste is simple, with faint meats, dill, dry oak, and youthful yeasty touches.
• The flavour profile is interesting, but it is more a work in progress than a ready whisky.

Finish

• The finish starts to fade away too soon after swallowing, indicating a relatively quick and fleeting aftertaste.