Golden Horse Musashi

Musashi is the old name of the Japanese province where you can find the Hanyu Distillery (or what’s left of it). While this Golden Horse tries to link itself to Hanyu, it has absolutely nothing to do with this legendary Japanese whisky. This pure malt is released by Toa Shuzo, who do not even have a distillery. You are probably aware that the Japanese rules are such that whisky from all over the world may be imported and then bottled as Japanese whisky. Only redeeming quality? It’s a pure malt, so no grain whisky in there, so hopefully it’s a bit better than the terrible Bushu of the same house. Young apples, pear drops, barley sugar, gooseberry, mandarin and peach. This nose is fruity, but also honeysweet and obviously very young. Hint of nougat and marzipan. But again, this Musashi has a very mediocre nose. The body is light, almost watery. Honeysweet on young apples and pears. Actually the very same as the already boring nose, but with a touch of cinnamon. Meh. Short, mildly spicy finish, that offers another dose of honey. Much better than the Bushi? Nope. And again a disgrace for the term ‘Japanese whisky’. 80? You are kidding me, right? Gangsters! To be avoided.