Yamazaki 1994 Owner's Cask #4R70055 - Suntory - b. 2005 - 700 ml

Distillery: The Yamazaki
Age: Vintage 1994
ABV: 61.0%
Volume: 70cl
Vintage: 1994
Condition: Sealed, unopened

The Yamazaki Distillery, established in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, is Japan's oldest commercial whisky distillery and a true pioneer of Japanese whisky. Nestled in the Vale of Yamazaki, at the foot of Mount Tennozan, its unique location offers a diverse climate and exceptional water sources, crucial for maturation. Yamazaki holds an unparalleled reputation globally, with its whiskies consistently achieving critical acclaim and becoming highly sought-after collector's items due to their complexity, elegance, and increasing scarcity. It stands as a testament to Japanese craftsmanship and dedication to the art of whisky making.

This particular expression, The Yamazaki Owner's Cask #4R70055, represents an exceptionally rare and personal bottling from a single cask. Owner's Casks were private selections, bottled individually for discerning clients, making each release unique and extremely limited. Distilled in 1994 and matured for decades, this cask strength offering showcases the pinnacle of Yamazaki's artistry, highlighting the profound influence of long-term maturation on carefully selected wood. Such single cask bottlings are highly coveted by collectors for their individuality, strength, and the opportunity to experience Yamazaki in its purest, unadulterated form, distinct from core range expressions.

Tasting Notes:
Colour: Deep amber with glints of mahogany.
Nose: Rich and complex, with initial notes of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and polished antique wood, evolving into layers of sandalwood, incense, and a hint of exotic spices, underpinned by ripe figs and a subtle sherry influence.
Palate: A powerful yet harmonious explosion of flavour, delivering intense dark berries, ginger spice, and a rich maltiness, balanced by bitter orange peel, roasted nuts, and a delightful touch of Mizunara oak, leading to a profound depth and warmth.
Finish: Exceptionally long and lingering, with echoes of sweet tobacco, dark espresso, and a persistent whisper of oriental spice, leaving a refined and memorable impression of aged elegance.