Yamazakura’ Blended Japanese Whisky is a relatively new brand in the Sasanokawa portfolio, a Japanese spirits company dating back to 1765 that makes sake and schochu. This represents a high-end complement to their entry-level whisky range (‘Yama’ means ‘mountain’ and ‘Sakura’ means cherry tree, hence the label design). Aroma, grainy, potato peel takes a back seat to lemon and light banana esters. The palate is thin, watery, mousy, burnt sawdust, light lemon and dental rinse notes, very high drinkability but low complexity and enjoyment value. Very supple and generous. A lot of honey, and lemongrass. The blend is young, with barley sugar.