Kurayoshi Distillery - 'Pure Malt' 12yr Japanese Whisky (750ML)

The Kurayoshi Japanese Pure Malt Whisky is aged a full twelve years in new, lightly charred oak, and served up at an absolutely perfect 43% ABV without any of the unwelcome and unnecessary additives that no one really wants. And the result is certainly a sweet spot for us — mellowing the bright tones of the younger spirits into warm notes of nuts and toffee.

Matsui Shuzo Distillery was founded in 1910 northwest of Kyoto on the facing the Sea of Japan in Tottori Prefecture. Importantly, the distillery is within sight of Mount Daisen — a volcanic peak rising more than a mile above the surrounding fertile plains. This is significant because the spring water used to distill their Sake, Shōchū, and Whisky and bring it to proof has filtered through volcanic stone for eons — resulting in significant purity and a unique, soft mineral composition.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Honey sweetness. Granny smith apples and bright white wine.

Palate: Tingly - still sweet, but more apple tartness comes through. Orchard fruits with the barest of red stone fruits and char in the background. Roasted nuts appear on the finish. Mouthfeel is drying, coating, with a medium body.

Finish: Pleasantly hot, medium-length with some light smoke.