Back in 2021, I wrote a post about KAIYō (Japanese for Ocean) whiskies. In that post I sampled the Signature; Cask Strength; The Single and The Peated. Of the four samples I had that day, the Cask Strength was my least favorite. You can find the info on my thoughts and about KAIYō in that initial post here on Instagram or in my blog, link in bio.

Since writing that post about three years ago, I have had the chance to once again try the cask strength and well… I have thoughts.

Nose: fruit and sweetness
Palate: smooth, fruit and chocolate
Finish: lightly sweet and malty
Cost: $85-$100
ABV: 53%

I’m extremely shocked, this is not what I initially tasted back in 2021. I either got a bad batch, my palate changed or something in the whisky changed as this whisky was loads better. Far from the herbal notes I got on my initial review.

This was silky, smooth, with little burn. You get a light sweetness that’s not overwhelming with nice fruit notes in between. The notes are balanced, and it didn’t drink like a cask strength. I rather found it easy to drink.

Extremely happy I got the chance to try this again. I really enjoyed it. It goes without saying that it’s always better to give something you didn’t enjoy in the past a second chance.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.