06 Jul Whisky Wednesday: Suntory’s Yamazaki 12 year old single malt Watami President’s Choice

This week’s Whisky Wednesday features a special bottle made by Suntory’s Yamazaki Distillery especially for a Japanese restaurant chain – but we’ve managed to get our hot little hands on a couple.

Whisky: Yamazaki 12 year old Watami President’s Choice
Distiller: Suntory Whisky
Country: Japan
Type: Single malt whisky
ABV: 43%

Colour (what does it look like?):
Golden straw

Nose (what does it smell like?):
Red berries, cinnamon, raisins

Palate (what does it taste and feel like?):
Stonefruit, ripe berries, baked goods, all spice

Finish (how does the flavour finish on the palate?):
Smooth, balanced, fruits

Background

From Japan’s most well-known distillery, the Yamazaki 12 year old single malt Watami President’s Choice is a slightly different take on the Yamazaki 12 that we know as one of our best sellers here at Tokyo Bird.

This special exclusive release single malt comprising whiskies at least 12 years old was first released in 2008. It was made for restaurant chain president Miki Watanabe who presides over the Watami chain of casual Japanese restaurants, which have now expanded across Asia, including in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea and Cambodia.

It contains more sherry cask-matured whiskies than the standard Yamazaki 12, so expect some more red fruit notes than the tropical fruit notes of the standard 12 year old. Try it out tonight and drink like a President.

Best drinking

Neat.

What do you think?

Leave a comment with your thoughts on Yamazaki 12 year old Watami President’s Choice – or come try it at Tokyo Bird tonight! Mention #WhiskyWednesdays to get free bar snacks with your Whisky of the Week (Wednesdays only).