Description

Yamazakura Black Label Bottling Note

Yamazakura Black Label is a distinguished Japanese blended whisky produced by Sasanokawa Shuzo, a company with a rich history dating back to 1765. Located in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture, Sasanokawa Shuzo has been crafting a variety of alcoholic beverages for centuries. The name “Yamazakura” combines the Japanese words for “mountain” (yama) and “cherry blossom” (sakura), reflecting the natural beauty and traditional culture of Japan. Although the distillery has a long history, Yamazakura Black Label itself is a relatively recent addition to their lineup, introduced in 2015.

This whisky is a blend of carefully selected malt and grain whiskies, resulting in a harmonious and balanced profile. Yamazakura Black Label is bottled at 40% ABV and is known for its smooth and approachable character. On the nose, it offers a delightful bouquet of lactic notes, grains, smoke, honey, and a hint of green apple. The palate is equally inviting, with flavors of lactic acid, grains, smoke, green apple, honey, and a slight tingling sensation from the alcohol. The body is light to medium, and the finish is characterized by a lingering sweetness reminiscent of green apple, smoke, and a touch of alcohol warmth.

One of the unique aspects of Yamazakura Black Label is its subtle smokiness, which is not commonly found in Japanese whiskies. This smokiness, combined with the sweet and fruity notes, creates a distinctive and enjoyable drinking experience. The whisky also features flavors of malt chocolate and crackers, adding to its complexity. Despite its relatively young age, the blend is crafted to provide a pleasant and satisfying taste, making it a great choice for both whisky enthusiasts and casual drinkers.

However, Yamazakura Black Label has faced some criticism. The use of imported grain whisky in the blend has led to debates about its authenticity as a purely Japanese product.

Despite these criticisms, Yamazakura Black Label remains a beloved choice for many, especially those who appreciate the charm of a local, craft whisky. Its classic Japanese whisky profile, combined with a touch of smokiness, makes it a unique and enjoyable option for various drinking occasions. Whether enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in a highball, Yamazakura Black Label offers a taste of Japan’s rich whisky heritage and the dedication of Sasanokawa Shuzo to producing quality spirits.

Yamazakura Black Label Tasting Note

Nose: On the nose, Yamazakura Black Label presents a delightful bouquet of lactic notes, grains, smoke, honey, and a hint of green apple. The aroma is inviting and well-balanced, offering a preview of the complexity to come.

Palate: Upon tasting, the palate reveals a harmonious blend of lactic acid, grains, smoke, green apple, and honey. The flavors are well-integrated, with a slight tingling sensation from the alcohol that adds a touch of excitement to the experience. The body is light to medium, making it approachable for both seasoned whisky drinkers and newcomers alike.

Finish: The finish is characterized by a lingering sweetness, with notes of green apple, smoke, and a touch of alcohol warmth. This pleasant aftertaste leaves a lasting impression, inviting you to take another sip.

Overall: Overall, Yamazakura Black Label is a well-crafted whisky that offers a unique combination of classic Japanese whisky characteristics with a subtle smokiness. Its smooth and balanced profile makes it a versatile choice for various drinking occasions, whether enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in a highball.