Akashi White Oak

700 ml bottle. White Oak Akashi Blended Whiskey is another whisky added to the US releases of Japanese whisky. Originally a sake distillery, White Oak has been around since 1919 and is a whisky that has lately received some attention, though not entirely positive. Colour: Caramel. Nose: Young, spirited vanilla, caramel syrup, spice, and a watery herbal quality. Not the worst young blended whisky I’ve tried, but it’s in the neighbourhood. Palate: On the palate it mirrors the nose and shows itself young and spirited. There’s a weak malt character that emerges as you drink, but it doesn’t manifest in a way that balances or adds richness. Small caramel touches hide beneath the big grain and alcohol notes. Finish: Short caramel, grain whisky, lemon peel, and a touch of spice and malt. Balance, Body and Feel: Not well balanced, thin body, and a loose watery feel.