BREAKTHRU® Kaiyo Mizunara Oak Japanese Whisky (700ml) – [WA 92, #14 Top 20 of 2019] – 6045577150623

92 Points & #14 Top 20 Whiskies of 2019 – Whisky Advocate:
“Mizunara oak is the modern signature of Japanese whisky, and Kaiyo- whisky enables inquisitive imbibers to savor the spice, incense, and sandalwood flavors of this rare wood for an attractive price. Distilled and matured in Japan, the casks then undergo a three-month ocean voyage from Osaka to Liverpool before bottling to encourage further flavorsome interactions. Ground spices, vanilla sponge cake, honey, brown sugar cubes, and scents of aromatic woods and incense. Pastry, egg custard, and allspice flavors, followed by a wave of vanilla creaminess and a lengthy finish with fading spices.”

“This was aged in Mizunara oak for the entirety of its maturation, which includes three-month ocean maturation. This easy sipper is pure honey, landing lightly with a brush of ginger heat and an echo of smoke, which grows bigger with repeated sips. Adding water brings out a bit more spice and a buttery texture.”