Ginkgo Japanese Whisky

Slightly solvent initially, nailpolish, that opens up with floral aromas up high and sweet butter down low. Edinburgh rock. Clean and grainy with some citrus, plums, plastic bags and envelope glue. Water unleashes more breadiness and citrus, grapefruit (not pink) skin, and the harder solventy edges dissipate.

Rich, toasty, charming... with a dark side. Burnt sugar, toffeed, malty sweetness, some fruitiness in the form of apples, but generally oaky and toasty. Some smoke comes forward late in the development, especially accented by the addition of water. Minutes later there is a herbal, floral element that still lingers.

Initial mild, acetone notes on the nose soon give way to sweet and floral characteristics, with vanilla essence, delicate spices and mandarin oranges.

The palate is medium-bodied, sweet and fruity, with a spicy, smoky, citric edge. Water releases more spices and vanilla.

The finish is long and smoky, with a hint of barley sugar. Japanese whisky at its best – with characteristic complexity, balance, and elegance. Delicious!

Whisky of the Month November 2007.