Keizo Saji, the second Master Blender, inherited his father's quest to push back the boundaries of what Japanese whisky could be. He had searched all over Japan for high-quality water that would become the most delicately aromatic to produce whisky that people would love. After searching tenaciously in river streams and steep mountains, he found Hakushu.The Hakushu distillery is undoubtedly one of the highest distilleries in the world, built amidst the deepest forests of Mt. Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Southern Alps.
Nose: Complex, with notes of toast, dry peat and twigs. On aeration, the peat becomes more intense, almost animal-like. Exotic fruits (passion fruit, mango) and fresh figs add substance and verve to the aromatic palette.
Mouth: Dynamic, exotic, honeyed (lime blossom) and floral (hyacinth). The mid-palate is deeply rooted (ginseng, gentian), highlighting an extremely saline and refreshing minerality.
Finish: Long and balanced. Peat with chocolate, vanilla and spicy (saffron) accents takes center stage. Intensely, it invites us to savor a delicious plain pound cake. Scents of Havana, wildflowers and black licorice.
This ageless version was released in 2016 as a permanent product that showcases the elegant style of Miyagikyo malts. when all age statements were dropped. This bottling has ester aromas generated by carefully selected yeast strains as well as a distinctive Sherry cask influence.
This unaged version was released in 2016 as a permanent product that truly captures the authentic style of Yoichi malts, when all age indications were removed. A blend of different malt whiskies, this bottling expresses a delicate balance of peaty, smoky and fruity aromas.
Nose: Mars Malt Duo Chichi / Komaga reveals notes of ripe fruit, vanilla and oak. Mouth: On the palate, this Japanese whisky presents flavors of caramel, sweet spices and dried fruit. Finish: The finish is long and warm, leaving notes of honey and oak on the palate.