Whisky Review: Suntory World Whisky ‘Ao’, produced by ies at 43% ABV — at $55, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
since 1984. I think this is what makes for a really interesting thesis behind the bottle. Rather than focusing on one grain or one production method, we are getting a collage of whiskies that become Japanese in spirit due to their assembly by someone who has helped shape the identity of Japanese Whisky for decades. We review Suntory World Whisky Ao, made from a blend of five whiskies from across Suntorys global portfolio of distilleries. (image via Suntory) Tasting Notes: Suntory World Whisky Ao Vital Stats: 43% ABV. Blended from five unspecified whiskies across the Suntory portfolio. $55 for a 700ml bottle. Nose: Slight smokiness that then turns into rich, fruity sweetness. Palate: Light and sweet, more so than you would think based on the smell. Very mild heat, and only traces of the fruit that initially seemed so deep and rich to the nose. Hints of peat & smoke in the after taste.
Palate
A pleasant, though slightly mild, whisky that has more range the more your sip. Its not the first bottle I would go to if I was seeking out a Suntory whisky, and probably not the second or third either. But I give credit to Suntory for a really interesting idea, even if the end result is just ‘ok’.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Review: Suntory World Whisky ‘Ao’ is fine — not bad, not great, just fine. At $55, I think there are better options in this range if you are willing to look around.
