Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 48% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (87)

Colour: full gold.

Nose: ah yes, there’s the same kind of rancio that we already had in the ‘46’, as well as two or three struck matches and then some kind of mentholated prunes and bacon. More and more polished wood after that, old furniture, some dark chocolate and just touches of eau-de-vie. Becomes earthier and more leathery after a few minutes.

Mouth: excellent. The first thing I like here is the complexity and these notes of old sherry, between chocolate fudge and pipe tobacco. After that, it’s the ginger and various herbs that start to talk, together with a little white pepper and quite some marmalade. Too my liking, to say the least.

Finish: long and nervous, quite rich, with the herbs bringing more freshness. More marmalade as well, jams…

Comments: the first Asama was an excellent surprise so this one can’t be any, Alzheimer’s hasn’t stricken yet (hopefully!)

BOW (88)