Yamazaki Pure Malt 10-Year 114 Proof 500ml

The Yamazaki Pure Malt Whisky 10 Year Old, a rare and highly sought-after expression from Japan's pioneering distillery, represents a significant piece of whisky history. Each bottle, like this No. 15274, captures a complex interplay of fruit, malt, and a delicate wisp of smoke, a testament to Suntory's master blending and maturation expertise. This full-bodied 114 proof pure malt offers a rich and deeply satisfying drinking experience.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Initial notes burst with dried fruits like apricot and fig, mingling with sweet vanilla, honey, and subtle floral undertones. A delicate spice emerges, reminiscent of cinnamon and ginger, intertwined with a hint of sandalwood and a faint wisp of distant smoke.

Palate: The entry is rich and smooth, immediately delivering a complex interplay of sweet and savory. Honeyed malt and caramel flavors are prominent, balanced by ripe red apple, pear, and orange zest. Underlying notes of dark chocolate, oak spice (nutmeg, clove), and a touch of tobacco leaf provide depth. The 114 proof is well-integrated, offering warmth without harshness, and a velvety texture.

Finish: Long, warm, and satisfying. The finish lingers with sweet oak, a gentle nuttiness, and a fading spice that transitions into a subtle, elegant smokiness and a lingering hint of dried fruit and leather.

About the Distillery

The Yamazaki Distillery, established in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii near Kyoto, is Japan's oldest commercial whisky distillery and the birthplace of Japanese whisky. Situated at the foot of Mount Tennozan, its unique location offers exceptional water quality and a diverse microclimate that contributes to the distinctive character of its whiskies. Yamazaki is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship, diverse still shapes, and varied cask maturation, producing single malt whiskies that have gained international acclaim.