Kaiyō Mizunara Oak Whiskey / 43% / 0.7l

Kaiyō Ltd. is a Hong Kong-based whisky publisher founded by Akashi's former manager, a Mr. Watanabe.

Thanks to contacts gained in the previous stage of his career, Watanabe buys barrels of so-called spooned malts (single malt with a minimal admixture of another malt whisky) from Japanese distilleries (he does not reveal which ones), and then subjects them to additional aging in barrels made of Japanese oak (Mizunara oak). Mizunara barrels are extremely rare and expensive, their price reaches up to $7,500 per barrel. The final phase of maturation of Kaiyō whisky takes place during a 3-month sea voyage (kaiyō means ocean). During the voyage, the whisky is exposed to movement, changes in temperature and pressure, which accelerate the penetration of the wood and the release of the delicate flavors and aromas contained in it.

Nose: light, floral, spring meadow, hay barn, incense, coconut flakes, vanilla, orange peel, green tea and sandalwood.

Taste: very delicate, pineapples, bananas, vanilla, toffee, milk chocolate, cinnamon, a bit of nutmeg and coconut flakes.

Finish : medium long, with notes of tropical fruits, exotic spices, orange peel and sandalwood.