Matsui Sakura Cask

Matsui Sakura Cask, NAS, 48 %

This is the third bottling from Kurayoshi Distillery in Japan that I review today. The Matsui Sakura Cask has been matured in Japanese cherry wood casks.

The Matsui Sakura Cask is available to buy in Norway at NOK 1160 (11331501), or as part of a 3x20 cl set at NOK 1162 (11357308).

Nose: Light notes of mixed summer fruits at first. Well balanced and approachable. Red berries, including cherry. Vanilla and icing sugar.

Taste: Quite rich in character. Sugary sweet. Much the same as the nose, but on the palate the sweetness is more pronounced than the fruitiness. Creamy and softly malty. Red berries again. Ginger and hints of cinnamon. Assorted citrus fruits.

Finish: Medium long finish. A quick flash of spices before it mellows out. Notes of cut grass and green herbs towards the end. In the end I'm left with the echoes of sweet oranges, white sugar, pepper and green mint.

Comment: A light delight. Very drinkable.

Score 88/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas