Single Malt
Estery Aromas
Sherry Cask
Miyagikyo malts are described as elegant and fruity. Made from light peated and non-peated malted barley, whiskies distilled in pot stills heated by indirect steam express a signature fruitiness and delicate mouthfeel.
When curiosity and open-mindedness meet.
Masatake Taketsuru set out to find the perfect location for his second distillery. He wanted to create a completely different expression from his first distillery Yoichi. Different natural environments and production methods. Welcome to the valley of Miyagi.
Out of Miyagi came his creation, the Miyagikyo Distillery. Using light peated and non-peated malted barley, and heated with indirect steam instead of direct coal-fired distillation, he was successful in creating a whisky with fruitiness and delicate mouthfeel, quite different from the Yoichi Distillery.
Full disclosure – I have been enjoying this bottle for a while now before writing this review. At review time, there is about 1/3 of the whisky left. I don’t believe there has been a noticeable change from open to now.
The Review
The Sniff
So fruity and floral, this is really wonderful on the nose. Red apple, blends in with apple blossoms and beeswax. Just a hint of malted barley and peat smoke comes through.
The Sip
So rich and sweet on the palate, but surprisingly spicy. Ginger, cinnamon, red apples are followed by a hint of licorice and light oak.
The Finale
A buttery feel with just the right amount of black pepper that lingers just long enough leaving an ever so light smoke.
The Wrap-up
This is NAS (Non-Age Stated) Japanese Whisky is a beautiful dram. A perfect pour for someone just wanting to try whisky, depth for the expert and shows the quality that comes from Japanese Whisky (see below). From the first sniff to the last sip, this expression will fit well on any whisky shelf.
Japanese Whisky
This product meets all the criteria of “Japanese whisky “ defined by the Japan Spirits & Liqueur Makers Association. Read More
