Nose: Herbs and pine on the nose, rather forest like. Some white grape. Dry oak, with lavender and floral undertones. Some tobacco smoke.

Palate: Rich malt with pungent grapes. Pine note is there again. Oak and floral notes accompany slightly bitter cirtus rind. Very faint pork.

Finish: Oak, vanilla and wood spice. Medium.

Overall: An exciting expression from Akashi, that uses its youthful fire to good effect. Herbal and woody, you'd be forgiven for thinking of the forest floor whilst sipping this dram. Anyone with an interest in world whisky needs to try this.