Japanese Whisky

Region: Japan/World
Distillery: Yamazakura (Sasanokawa Shuzo)/World
Age: NAS
ABV: 40%
Size: 700 ml

The Yamazakura Fine Blended Whisky is made by Sasanokawa Shuzo Co, a small distillery in Japan which has recently set up the new Asaka Whisky Distillery under their company as well. Their own distillation has also gone through turbulent times in sync with the Japanese whisky market's boom and bust cycles with bulk spirit imports replacing their own production through these times. 

Tasting Notes: Orange blossoms on the nose, followed by oak, caramel, and fresh orchard fruit on the palate. Easy on the nose and palate, this is a very gentle whisky with an upfront sweetness that stays on the palate followed by dark chocolate in the finish.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Yoichi & Miyagikyo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

The Taketsuru Pure Malt range from Nikka honors Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka and widely regarded as the father of Japanese whisky. While most age-stated whiskies in this range have been discontinued, this non-age-statement expression remains one of Nikka’s signature offerings. It showcases the art of blending with exquisite balance and complexity.

This 2020 release comprises approximately 264,000 bottles and features a higher proportion of Yoichi Single Malt than previous versions. The result is a whisky that presents gentle malt flavors, fruitiness, and a well-rounded profile, making it an ideal introduction to the world of Nikka.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Subtle smoke mingles with oak spices, vanilla, and floral notes, creating a fragrant and inviting aroma.
• Palate: A beautifully balanced blend of malt sweetness, dried fruits, and a touch of nuttiness, complemented by hints of spice and gentle smoke.
• Finish: A smooth and lingering finish with lingering notes of vanilla and oak, leaving a warm and satisfying impression.

Please note: No box is available.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Shinshu Mars/World
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 40%
• Size: 700 ml

Produced by Hombo Shuzo, this world blended whisky is named after Kiichiro Iwai, who played a crucial role in the early years of distilling at Hombo Shuzo. It undergoes a finishing period in Pedro Ximénez Sherry Casks, imparting rich flavors characteristic of sherry maturation.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromatic notes of dried fruits, particularly raisins, intertwine with sweet hints of maple syrup and toffee, creating a warm and inviting bouquet.
• Palate: The palate reveals a delightful medley of dark fruits, complemented by a smooth and creamy mouthfeel. The sweetness from the sherry cask adds depth, while hints of oak and spice enhance the complexity.
• Finish: The finish is rich and lingering, showcasing a harmonious balance of sweetness and a subtle dryness, leaving traces of dried fruits and a soft, warming warmth.

Please note, this bottle does not come with a box.

Region: Japan / World
Distillery: Yamazakura, Sasanokawa Shuzo / World
Age: NAS
ABV: 46%
Size: 700 ml

The Yamazakura 'Precious' Blended Japanese Whisky is made by Sasanokawa Shuzo Co, a small distillery in Japan. Their own distillation has also gone through turbulent times in sync with the Japanese whisky market's boom and bust cycles with bulk spirit imports replacing their own production through these times. 

This 'Precious' Blended Japanese Whisky includes a rich selection of malt whiskies in the blend delivering a more velvety palate and notes of vanilla, honey, apricots with an elegant sweetness balanced with malty cereals.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Miyagikyo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 45%
• Size: 700 ml

The Miyagikyo Distillery, part of the Nikka Whisky family, presents this new single malt, which is a vatting of various aged whiskies primarily matured in ex-Sherry casks.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Full-flavored with rich floral notes, beeswax, and tropical fruits
• Palate: Malty cereal balanced with spices such as cinnamon, along with hints of ginger and chocolate at the back
• Finish: Notes of tobacco and cooked fruits, complemented by a lingering softness

Please note, this bottle does not come with a box.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Yoichi
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 45%
• Size: 700 ml

Nikka Yoichi is the first distillery established by Nikka, founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru. With a vision to create whisky akin to Scotch, Taketsuru chose Hokkaido for its climate, reminiscent of Scotland. This single malt is distinguished by its subtle peat smoke, a hallmark of traditional direct coal-fired distillation, and the delicate hint of saltiness imparted by the sea breeze during maturation.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A complex bouquet of gentle peat smoke, maritime notes, and rich malt aromas.
• Palate: Full-bodied with a harmonious blend of sweet malt, light spices, and the characteristic smokiness, balanced with a touch of salinity.
• Finish: A long and satisfying finish, leaving a lingering warmth and notes of smoke and sea air.

Please note: No box is available.

Region: Japan/World
Distillery: Asaka Distillery & 4 World Whisky Distilleries
Age: NAS
ABV: 47%
Size: 700ml

A world blended whisky which combines Whisky from the Asaka Distillery owned by Sasanokawa Shuzo & 4 other unnamed distilleries from different whisky regions around the world. The key malt comes from the Asaka Distillery.

Tasting Notes: A hint of maple syrup and floral notes on the nose combined with a rich malt on the palate with some cereal notes, hint of spices and and subtle smoky aftertaste.

• Region: Japan/World
• Distillery: Shinshu Mars/World
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 40%
• Size: 700 ml

The Lucky Cat 'Luna' is the seventh edition of 'The Lucky Cat' series—a world blended whisky crafted from malt and grain whisky sourced from Shinshu Mars and other distilleries. This edition, released in 2022 with only 5,220 bottles, is primarily aged in ex-bourbon and new oak casks before being finished in Manzanilla and Oloroso sherry casks.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of shortbread and brown sugar intertwine with the sweetness of raisins, complemented by hints of dried fruits and a touch of oak.
• Palate: A delicate and balanced palate featuring notes of apricots and figs, enriched by a subtle saltiness that enhances the overall experience.
• Finish: The finish is smooth and lingering, with a delightful sweetness of dried fruits and a gentle oak presence, leaving a warm, inviting aftertaste.

Region: Japan/World
Distillery: Yamazakura, Sasanokawa Shuzo/World
Age: NAS
ABV: 48%
Size: 700 ml

A pure malt whisky from Sasanokawa Shuzo featuring notes of cherry, oak combined with an earthiness. The "Pure Malt" indicates that no grain whisky has been used for this bottling and features components matured in Virgin Oak, Ex-Bourbon & Sherry Cask Matured whiskies for reportedly over 5 years. It also has a component of peated malt at 50 ppm. Their own distillation has also gone through turbulent times in sync with the Japanese whisky market's boom and bust cycles with bulk spirit imports replacing their own production through these times. 

Nose: Sweet caramel with fresh green apples, tropical fruits like banana and cherry crumble pie. Palate: On the palate, some definitive sherry notes along with creamy vanilla and nuts. Finish: Subtle peat that rears its head towards the finish. A balanced vatting of malts with an overall rounded profile.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Yamazaki & Hakushu & Chita
• Age: NAS (No Age Statement)
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a beautifully crafted blended whisky that embodies the essence of Japanese artistry and tradition. Launched as a celebration of the harmonious blending of malt and grain whiskies from the renowned Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries, this expression is designed to offer a balanced and elegant drinking experience.

Presented in the iconic 24-faceted Hibiki bottle, each facet symbolizes a unique aspect of nature, reflecting the commitment to beauty and craftsmanship that defines Hibiki whiskies. Japanese Harmony is a tribute to the art of blending, where the master blender meticulously selects whiskies to create a spirit that is both approachable and complex.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A vibrant aroma of fresh fruits, including orange peel and peach, complemented by delicate floral notes and a hint of honey.
• Palate: The palate is smooth and well-rounded, showcasing flavors of sweet vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle spices, with a whisper of Mizunara oak that adds a unique depth.
• Finish: The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering notes of fruit and a touch of nuttiness, leaving a warm and inviting impression.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony is perfect for both newcomers and seasoned whisky enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Please note that no box is available.

• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Kanosuke Distillery
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 48%
• Size: 700 ml

Kanosuke Single Malt is the flagship whisky from Kanosuke Distillery, meticulously crafted from lightly peated barley using three different pot stills. This expression is matured primarily in re-charred American white oak casks previously used for aging the barrel-aged shochu ‘Mellowed Kozuru.’ Every step—mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation—occurs in the picturesque Kagoshima region. The whisky is non-chill filtered, preserving its rich flavors and aromas.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The nose is vibrant, featuring ripened citrus fruit (karin), honey, banana, lemon tea, and caramel, creating a fragrant and inviting profile.
• Palate: On the palate, experience a sunset taste with ginger honey and slightly smoked nuts, balancing sweetness and complexity.
• Finish: The finish is sweet and aromatic, with a touch of bitterness, leading to a mild and long-lasting conclusion that lingers pleasantly.

Kanosuke Single Malt is perfect for those seeking a whisky that encapsulates the essence of its origin, offering a unique drinking experience that reflects the artistry and tradition of Japanese whisky-making.

• Region: Japan & World
• Distillery: Chichibu & Hanyu
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 46%
• Size: 700 ml

Ichiro's Malt Double Distilleries Pure Malt Japanese Whisky is a unique expression crafted by Ichiro Akuto, blending the rich traditions of two renowned distilleries: Chichibu and his grandfather's Hanyu Distillery. This harmonious vatting highlights the exceptional qualities of both distilleries, showcasing a whisky that pays homage to Japan's whisky heritage.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The aroma greets you with honeyed sweet berries, layered with a hint of aromatic spices that invite further exploration.
• Palate: On the palate, the experience begins with a delightful honey sweetness, seamlessly transitioning into warming ginger spice. The flavor profile develops with malty undertones and subtle oak, providing a balanced and satisfying finish.
• Finish: The finish lingers with a gentle warmth, leaving traces of sweetness and spice that beckon for another sip.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Mars Tsunuki Distillery
• Age: NA
• ABV: 50%
• Size: 700 ml

Launched in 2016, the Mars Tsunuki Distillery is the second distillery of the Hombo Shuzo Group. This 2022 Edition showcases the distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, with a release of 35,800 bottles. It was awarded the silver medal at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition (TWSC 2022).

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A rich bouquet of fresh fruits, vanilla, and subtle floral notes, complemented by a hint of oak and gentle spice.

• Palate: Smooth and creamy with flavors of caramel, sweet apples, and toasted nuts. A touch of spice enhances the sweetness, creating a well-rounded mouthfeel.

• Finish: A lingering finish of warm vanilla and light smokiness, leaving a pleasant, slightly sweet aftertaste.

• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Kanosuke Distillery
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 51%
• Size: 700 ml

Kanosuke Hioki Pot Still is crafted at the Hioki Distillery, where both unmalted and malted barley are employed in a unique mashing and fermentation process. This whisky is then distilled with care in a stainless steel shochu pot still, followed by maturation in new American white oak casks and bourbon barrels at the Kanosuke Distillery warehouse. The result is a whisky that beautifully blends tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich terroir of Kagoshima.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The nose opens with inviting aromas of butter sand, apricot, plum, and a hint of citrus, creating a fragrant and fruity bouquet.
• Palate: On the palate, enjoy the delightful flavors of marmalade, vanilla, orange, and almond, offering a sweet and nutty profile.
• Finish: The finish is smooth and warming, featuring notes of vanilla, dry ginger, cinnamon, and a gentle sweetness that lingers pleasantly.

• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Kanosuke Distillery
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 53%
• Size: 700 ml

Kanosuke Double Distillery is a distinctive Japanese whisky that showcases the unique craftsmanship of the Kanosuke family, combining the expertise from two distilleries in Kagoshima on Japan's southwest coast. This whisky is a blend of stainless steel pot still whisky distilled at Hioki and single malt distilled at Kanosuke, both of which are aged at the Kanosuke facility. The combination of distillation methods contributes to a complex flavor profile, reflecting the innovative spirit of the distillery.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The aroma is vibrant and inviting, featuring notes of vanilla, mint, melon, peach, apricot, and a hint of lemongrass.
• Palate: On the palate, the whisky reveals rich flavors of cinnamon, black tea, orange, and clove, creating a warm and comforting experience.
• Finish: The finish is oaky and rich, leaving a well-balanced fruit aroma with a subtle touch of bitterness, ensuring a satisfying end to the tasting journey.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Suntory
• Age: NAS (No Age Statement)
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

Hibiki Blender's Choice is a masterful expression of Japanese craftsmanship, released in September 2018 as a rumored successor to the beloved Hibiki 17. This whisky combines a harmonious blend of malt and grain whiskies sourced from the prestigious Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries. Housed in the iconic 24-faceted Hibiki bottle, each facet represents a different element of Japanese nature and culture, adding to the allure of this exquisite spirit.

While the exact age of the whiskies in this blend ranges from 12 to 30 years, it is believed that the average age is around 15 years, contributing to its rich and layered profile. Hibiki Blender's Choice captures the essence of balance and harmony that is characteristic of the Hibiki range, making it a delightful addition to any whisky collection.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A delightful bouquet of floral notes intertwined with ripe fruit aromas, including hints of cooked fruits, blackberries, and ripe bananas, complemented by a touch of caramel.
• Palate: A harmonious blend of flavors unfolds, featuring sandalwood, honeycomb, and dried apricot, enriched by the distinctive character of Mizunara oak.
• Finish: The finish is smooth and inviting, with lingering notes of honey and fruit that dance on the palate, leaving a lasting impression.

Please note that no box is available.