by 
Nikka From the Barrel Blended Japanese Whisky. Hokkaido, Japan. ABV: 51.40%. Tasted at The Royal, $13.
Colour: Brassy gold.
Nose: Sweet toasty aromas, like a piece of hot buttered toast smothered with honey. A hint of liquorice maybe?
Palate: Soft buttery entry, quickly gives way as the big spice & warmth fill the mouth. A touch of sweet, spicy vanilla develops.
Finish: The heat fills your mouth. And keeps coming. Eventually it slowly fades leaving some of those sweet vanilla notes on your tongue. A real slow burner.
Comments: I wouldn’t have picked this for a blend, it’s got lots more flavour complexity and warmth than most other blends I’ve tried. Cracking value for money, only $13 for the glass or around $70 to grab a bottle in a bottle shop.
I’m happy to say this is the pick of the blends I’ve tried so far this year, maybe because for me it has characteristics more akin to a single malt than a blend. Recommended.