Crafted along the serene coastline of Kagoshima, the Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky showcases the harmony of tradition and innovation. Distilled in three unique copper pot stills and aged 3-5 years in a blend of re-charred shochu, ex-bourbon, and sherry casks, this whisky embodies complexity and elegance. With an inviting nose of banana, lemon cake, and honey, the palate delights with notes of candied quince, subtle ginger spice, and a whisper of campfire smoke, finishing with hints of salty sea air. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 48% ABV, this flagship expression represents the artistry of the Kanosuke Distillery, blending their shochu-making heritage with the natural beauty of Fukiagehama Beach for a truly exceptional Japanese whisky experience.
Process & Profile
Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the Kagoshima-based Kanosuke Distillery, which blends tradition and innovation. It is distilled using three unique copper pot stills that allow for diverse flavor profiles. The whisky matures in a curated selection of barrel types, including ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and re-charred American oak casks that once aged "Mellowed Kozuru," a rice shochu. This meticulous approach imparts a rich flavor profile and reflects over 140 years of the Komasa family's shochu-making heritage. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 48% ABV, this single malt is a tribute to both Japanese tradition and modern whisky-making techniques.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: A bright and inviting aroma with notes of ripened citrus, honey, banana, dried fruit, and a touch of caramel and oak.
-
Palate: Sweet nectarine and peach shine through, complemented by hints of ginger spice, toffee, smoked nuts, and lemon zest. There's a subtle smokiness with touches of malt and oak complexity.
-
Finish: The finish is mild yet lingering, with notes of bitter dark chocolate, sea air, and hints of caramelized sweetness.
What Makes It Special
Kanosuke Single Malt stands out for its integration of shochu production techniques, creating a truly unique whisky profile. The use of the re-charred Mellowed Kozuru ex-shochu cask is particularly notable, as it adds depth and complexity to the whisky. Furthermore, the coastal location of the distillery, nestled near Kagoshima's Fukiagehama beach, enhances the maturation process by drawing from the region's warm climate and salty sea air. This is Japanese whisky at its innovative best, combining local artistry with a global perspective.
How to Enjoy
Kanosuke Single Malt is versatile and suits various drinking preferences:
-
Neat: Revel in its intricate layers of flavor.
-
With Water: A splash of water softens its robustness while enhancing its fruity and malty notes.
-
On the Rocks: Slightly mellows the intensity, perfect for a relaxed sip.
-
In a Highball: The whisky's fruity and malty profile shines in a classic Japanese whisky highball, offering a refreshing experience.
In summary, Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky is a masterful creation that merges tradition, innovation, and the rich history of Japan's whisky and shochu-making heritage. Its complex yet approachable character makes it a prized addition to any whisky lover's collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky made from?
Kanosuke Single Malt is crafted primarily from 100% malted barley, combining 10% Japanese malted barley with 90% imported malted barley from the UK and Australia.
How is the whisky aged?
The whisky is aged in re-charred Ex-Mellowed Kozuru Shochu casks, made from American white oak. These casks previously held shochu for at least 10 years, contributing to Kanosuke's signature mellow and rich flavor profile. Additional maturation occurs in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and other cask types.
Does Kanosuke Single Malt Whisky have an age statement?
Currently, Kanosuke Single Malt is a non-age-stated whisky (NAS) with whiskies aged between 3 to 5 years blended to achieve the desired flavor profile.
What are the unique production methods used by Kanosuke Distillery?
Kanosuke uses techniques inspired by its 140-year shochu-making heritage. This includes vacuum distillation and the use of three distinct pot stills with varied lyne arm angles to produce different flavor profiles. The distillery also incorporates longer fermentation times to enhance fruity flavors.
What does Kanosuke Single Malt taste like?
The whisky features a fruity and creamy profile with tasting notes of nectarine, peach, dry oak, and a hint of malt. It is bright on the nose with cereal grains and honey aromas, while the finish is light and marked by stone fruit and oak.
Where is Kanosuke Distillery located?
The distillery is situated on the coast of Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, along Fukiagehama beach. The warm, humid climate, combined with sea breezes and seasonal temperature variations, accelerates cask maturation, adding depth to the whisky.
Is Kanosuke Single Malt a true Japanese whisky?
Yes, Kanosuke Single Malt is distilled, aged, and bottled in Japan using techniques that adhere to Japanese whisky production standards. It is one of the few whiskies made entirely from Japanese and imported barley without mixing with Scotch or whiskies from other countries.
What inspired the creation of Kanosuke Distillery?
The distillery was founded by Komasa Jyozo, a company with over 140 years of shochu-making expertise. Its aim is to blend traditional Japanese distillation techniques with modern whisky-making practices to create unique, high-quality craft whiskies.
How should I enjoy Kanosuke Single Malt?
The whisky has a versatile flavor profile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a highball. Its smooth character makes it approachable for both whisky enthusiasts and newcomers.
What makes Kanosuke Single Malt unique?
The unique combination of 140 years of shochu-making heritage, innovative production methods, and the use of re-charred Shochu casks sets Kanosuke apart from other Japanese whiskies. Its balance of traditional and modern techniques delivers a rich yet delicate flavor.