Suntory

AO World Whisky (GB) 700mL

Released to Global Travel Retail in October 2020, this hybrid combines whiskies from the five most noteworthy regions in the world - Japan, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the U.S. Suntory's Chief Blender,Shinji Fukuyo named the concept whisky 'Ao' meaning “blue” in Japanese, intended to evoke“the oceans that connect these distilleries together.”It's a whisky that pretty much does what the label suggests, offering a complex nose that wanders from sweet grains to more robust malt while also suggesting young Bourbon and trace smoke. Supple and integrated, the palate is a demonstration of Fukuyo's skills, starting out with faint citrus, vanilla and tea biscuits, building body and wood spice into the gently malty / smokey finale. It's followed by fruit'nut'chocolate and a light bourbon (or grain whisky) character through the aftertaste. Ultimately resembling a well-crafted malt-heavy blend,'Ao'possesses some of the weight and character of a fruity Speysider, but with the grace and sweetness of an Irish Pot still or Canadian grain giving overall form and definition - especially through the finish. Also beautifully presented. 43% Alc./Vol.