Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (89)

Another expression that I haven’t tried since 2005 or 2006… But I always loved the 18. Colour: amber. Nose: ah yes, now I remember why I always loved the 18. Perfect balance between richness and sleekness, with myriads of tiny aromas that make it very complex. Many herbs (mint and eucalyptus as often but also sage, rosemary, touches of camphor…) then many fruits, most dried (dates, sultanas), then fabulous whiffs of old pu-erh tea (humus and leather), then old rum, maple syrup, jams… Oh well, it’s really fantastic. Mouth: perfect body even after a whisky that was stronger, with an oiliness, some tea, a little leather, cardamom, other spices, sherry… Granted, it’s probably a little oaky and tannic but it can stand that. Also bitter oranges, ‘green‘ spices, more tea, cinnamon… Finish: medium long, with more berries. Blackcurrants and rich pipe tobacco. Comments: I guess it’s hard to make much more out of 18yo and 43% vol.

Words of Whisky (89)

:

Color
Burnished
Nose
Very, very condensed at first, but with plenty of glue and nail polish remover. Very characteristic for Japanese whiskies. Or so I've been told :) If you give it time in the glass, it will reward you. Lots of green banana, brown sugar, red apple. Also mango, apricot, dates and raisins. Some sweet rum, peach and a hint of soy. Very complex. Big thumbs up!

Taste
Tobacco and cinnamon, along with some cloves. The nose is sweeter than the palate appears to be. Coffee, nutmeg and bitter orange. Creamy and mouth coating with some tannins.

Finish
Long, meaty and dry with some wood spices.

Comments
That nose! Wow, very good. The palate is a bit more pedestrian though. But it can't be denied that this is a very good whisky. Just shy of scoring 90 points in my book.

BOW (90)

A Timeless Expression of Japanese Whisky Craftsmanship

Introduction:
Yamazaki, the esteemed Japanese distillery, has been synonymous with exceptional whisky craftsmanship for over a century. Among its illustrious range of expressions, the Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% stands as a true testament to the distillery's dedication to producing exquisite whiskies. This 18-year-old single malt is a culmination of time, skill, and patience, resulting in a whisky of remarkable complexity and depth. In this article, we explore the exceptional qualities and captivating journey that Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% offers to whisky connoisseurs.

Mastery of Maturation:
The Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% exemplifies the mastery of maturation that Yamazaki distillery has perfected over the years. Aged for a minimum of 18 years in a combination of American oak, Spanish oak, and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, this expression embodies the artistry of balancing flavors and extracting the essence of each cask type. The extended aging process imparts a depth of character and a harmonious integration of flavors, setting it apart as a truly exceptional whisky.

Tasting Notes:
Upon first sip, the Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% unveils a symphony of flavors on the palate. A delicate blend of dried fruits, including raisins and apricots, dance alongside warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. The rich sweetness of toffee and caramel provides a luscious foundation, perfectly complemented by a subtle touch of Mizunara oak, which imparts a distinctive spicy and incense-like character. The whisky's velvety texture and impeccable balance contribute to a truly indulgent tasting experience.

Aroma and Complexity:
The aroma of the Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% is a captivating blend of fragrant woods, dried fruits, and a gentle waft of floral notes. The Mizunara oak, in particular, lends a unique bouquet of sandalwood and Japanese incense, adding an exotic allure to the whisky. As the whisky lingers in the glass, subtle hints of dark chocolate and leather emerge, further enhancing its complexity.

Elegance in Presentation:
The Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% is presented in an elegant packaging that reflects the whisky's sophistication and refinement. The bottle design exudes a sense of timeless beauty, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist label, adorned with the iconic Yamazaki emblem. The attention to detail in both the whisky and its presentation is a testament to the distillery's commitment to excellence.

Conclusion:
The Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43% is a whisky that embodies the pinnacle of Japanese whisky craftsmanship. Its exceptional depth, complexity, and exquisite flavors are a testament to the distillery's commitment to producing remarkable whiskies. Whether savored by seasoned whisky enthusiasts or those embarking on their whisky journey, this expression offers a captivating experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Indulge in the artistry and refinement of Yamazaki with the Yamazaki 18 Years Old 43%, and savor the timeless beauty and craftsmanship that define Japanese whisky.