Located in the northern reaches of Hokkaido, Japan, Yoichi distillery greets visitors with its beautiful gardens and tastefully designed buildings and interiors, especially the Whisky Club Bar found within the museum.

The Single Malt Yoichi: Sherry and Sweet series is a distillery limited edition whisky that one can only buy from the on site shop. In addition to this, each customer is limited to 2 bottles of each series.

I managed to get my hands on the entire series, but will be opening the Sherry and Sweet one first. Here are my impressions as I enjoy a dram:

Nose: The high proof (110/ 55% alcohol) is justified. The intensity of the flavors rush out at you. The cloying sweetness almost overwhelms your senses. Toffee, caramel and a dessert like quality. Peatiness lurks in the background

Palate: The sweetness stands out, the sherry casks are working their magic. Beginner drinkers will definitely find this one easy to taste.

First impressions are of woodiness and smoke. The caramel, toffee and some fruitiness (green apples) can be then found within. Considering the high proof, this one does not give the drinker an alcohol burn

Finish: Medium long and smoky, not to the extent of the Islay Scotches though.

If you are in Hokkaido and is thinking of a good gift for a whisky drinker,look no further than the special distillery limited distillations.

Recommended for beginner drinkers, easy to understand and with limited alcohol burn on the tongue. 🙂

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