Kaiyo Whisky Cask Strength – The original (black label, unpeated) whisky reviewed above, but bottled at full proof (53% abv). White label. Again the nose comes across as youthful and slightly sweet — sandalwood, tea leaf, and notes of marshmallow cream. The palate cuts a similar character to the black label, but the extra alcohol gives it significantly more punch. Nutty with notes of banana and vanilla, it layers in wood and meaty character after the initial sweetness fades, lingering on a slight vegetal/umami note on the back end.
