Inchiro's Malt & Grain, Japanese Blended Whisky, Kiyosato Field Ballet, 26th anniversary, 330/700, 48% abv.

The Kiyosato Field Ballet is performed "outdoors" from July to August every year since it's inauguration in 1990. For some reason, these commemorative anniversary bottlings start from the 25th anniversary and have beem extremely exceptional and rare. The 25th anniversary release was a Hakushu, Yamazaki, and Chita blend; 26th and 27th anniversary releases were Hanyu and Kawasaki blends, while the 28th anniversary had three releases of Hakushu, Hanyu and Kawasaki blend, and a Maker's Mark Private Select bottling.

Nose: beautiful, coconut and wood, some of that light toast. Not sure if there was olfactory residue from the 120th Paul Rusch... not sure if there is such a thing as olfactory residue.

Palate: pretty strong vanilla, a little dry. Straight forward stuff.

Finish: medium to short, vanilla/toast is everywhere, has an interesting bacon/meat aftertaste though.

Wow, I think the grain component played a major role here, that grain sweetness is prevalent and delicious. Pineapple is all over the place. Interestingly for 48% abv, this tastes much stronger, like 55-60% abv and quite complicated, even though the flavors were pretty direct. Not sure if the flavor profile is similar to the Hakushu 120th Paul Rusch or if the previous Paul Rusch pour is affecting this pour. I like this one.

Grade: A

Couldn't find quantifiable, reliable reviews.

Image courtesy of Eric Yee.

Eric Yee

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