Designed to be an approachable, sipping whisky, Akashi Blended Whisky has a malty, citrusy characteristic complemented by hints of salinity due to its coastal location. This whisky is a blend of malt and grain whiskies distilled from wheat, barley, and rye, and is aged in ex-bourbon, barley shochu, and sherry casks, as well as new oak barrels. The nose is slightly fruity with hints of lemon, cherry, toffee, oats, and sea air. Flavors of vanilla and pine nuts delight on the palate, leading to a long, wheaty finish with a touch of peat. Akashis Blended Whiskey makes for an excellent introduction to the Japanese whisky category, an inviting segue to or from Scotch, or simply an everyday drinking dram.