Matthias Clock in Spirits

Whisky Review: Akashi White Oak

I picked up this bottle of Akashi White Oak at my local liquor store for the simple fact that it is produced in Japan and, well, we all know the Japanese whisky craze going on right now. So at $35/bottle, I thought, why not?

Akashi White Oak whisky is crafted using barley imported from Scotland and pure underground water from the Eigashima Distillery. From there, it is finished in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, which is immediately apparent on the nose and the palate.

Here’s the review.

Spirit details

Proof: 80

Country: Japan

Nose

Slightly aggressive, the scent of this scotch is tantalizing, with orange peel, oak, vanilla, and a touch of spice.

Palate

Akashi White Oak really engages the taste buds with a lot of complexity to a level that is tough to find in a value whisky. This whisky shows its age a bit aggressiveness about halfway through the taste journey, but the finish is malty and long.

Conclusion

Akashi White Oak really is a wonderful whisky to have on hand – great aroma, wonderful flavors, etc. The heat, however, definitely disrupts the experience, which is why I can’t justify a grade higher than B+ (good).

Final Grade: B+

Next Read: Cigar Review: Cohiba Red Dot »

Akashi WhiskyAkashi White Oak

Matthias Clock: Brand evangelist, digital marketer, cigar and spirits expert specializing in consumer tasting and educational events. Matthias made the long trek from his hometown of Portland, Oregon to New York City in 2007, and in nine years has hosted more than 120 events and helped promote and launch dozens of cigar and whiskey brands in the U.S. In 2016, he joined the Cigar Journal Tasting Panel, blind-reviewing pre and new release cigars.