Matsui whiskies are distilled by Kurayoshi, a distillery located in Tottori prefecture. The whisky is aged for a minimum of 3 years in a natural environment, where the temperature varies considerably from season to season. It is then diluted with the highest quality natural spring water from Mount Daisen. This Single Malt is aged in Sakura casks, the famous and emblematic Japanese cherry tree. This tree occupies an important place in Japanese culture. It is often used as a metaphor for the ephemeral beauty of life. It has always been a source of inspiration for Japanese artists.
The label, designed by Katsushika Hokusai, depicts 'Beauty in the Cherry Blossom Garden'.
Nose: Fine, balanced. malted barley-like, fruity (green banana, golden apple), acacia honey, exotic (pineapple), spicy (coriander, ginger, black pepper) and herbaceous (chervil, lovage). Then, gradually, medicinal notes (balsam).
Mouth: Lively, taut. Citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit) provide a dynamic attack. This is followed by a beautiful, almost roasted vanilla sequence (coffee), whose greediness highlights a remarkable sweet/savory balance.
Finish: Long, rich, with aniseed (star anise), vegetal (zucchini flower) and creamy (coconut milk) flavors gradually spreading around the palate.
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.
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.
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.
Nose: Yoichi Discovery Aromatic Yeast reveals notes of ripe fruit, vanilla and toasted oak. Feel: On the palate, this whisky reveals flavors of caramel, caramelized pears and walnuts. Finish: The finish is long and warm, giving way to smoky, spicy notes.