Frequently Asked Questions
The Kanosuke Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023 is an extraordinary limited-edition release that encapsulates the innovative spirit and tradition of Japanese whisky craftsmanship. Distilled at the Kanosuke Distillery in Kagoshima, Japan, this vintage features a blend of peated and unpeated malts from 2018–2019, double distilled using three diverse Miyake copper pot stills. Aged for an average of 4–5 years in an exquisite combination of sherry casks, ex-bourbon barrels, and the distillery's signature Mellowed Kozuru rice shochu casks, it delivers layers of complexity at a robust 59% ABV. This non-chill filtered whisky offers aromatic notes of cinnamon, custard, and banana mingled with smoky incense, leading to a rich palate of salted caramel, black tea, and baking spices. Its finish is dry and perfectly balanced with salty-sweet smoke. A gold medalist at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this cask-strength masterpiece is a must-try for whisky connoisseurs seeking depth and distinction.
Process & Profile
The 2023 Kanosuke Cask Strength is a product of meticulous craftsmanship. It is distilled using a combination of three Miyake copper pot stills, allowing for a diverse range of spirit profiles. The whisky is crafted from 100% malted barley, blending heavily peated malts at 50 ppm with unpeated malts for depth and balance. The distillation process is complemented by the warm, maritime climate of Kagoshima, which accelerates maturation, allowing the whisky to reach a remarkable level of complexity in just 4 to 5 years. Maturation takes place in a variety of casks, including ex-bourbon barrels, sherry casks, and the distillery's signature re-charred American oak shochu casks. Kanosuke's expertise in leveraging these casks imparts unique fruity, smoky, and spicy notes to the whisky. Bottled at cask strength (59% ABV), this whisky is non-chill filtered and free of added coloring, ensuring purity and authenticity.Tasting Notes
The 2023 edition offers a memorable sensory journey:- Nose: Vibrant aromas of smoky incense blend with ripe banana, pastry custard, and cinnamon, underpinned by a hint of salted caramel. Subtle layers of smokiness and baking spices emerge as well.
- Palate: Rich and weighty, the palate delivers bold flavors of black tea, salted caramel, and baking spices like nutmeg and clove. A smoky undertone and hints of dry oak create a balanced complexity.
- Finish: The finish is long, dry, and warming, featuring a salty-sweet smoke that lingers beautifully alongside notes of cinnamon and a touch of honey.
What Makes It Special
- Shochu Heritage: Kanosuke integrates its 140-year tradition of shochu-making, utilizing re-charred Mellow Kozuru shochu casks, a defining feature of its flavor profile.
- Peated and Unpeated Blend: The combination of heavily peated and unpeated malts creates a complex balance that appeals to fans of both smoky and smooth whiskies.
- Award-Winning Craftsmanship: This edition secured a gold medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, underscoring its global recognition as a premium whisky.
- Unique Maturation Conditions: The warm coastal climate of Kagoshima accelerates the aging process, resulting in robust and mature flavors in relatively short maturation periods.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Experience the full intensity and complexity by enjoying this cask-strength whisky neat. Its robust character shines when sipped slowly.
- With Water: Add a few drops of water to open up the aromas and soften the palate, revealing hidden layers of flavor.
- Pairing: Pair it with rich desserts like dark chocolate or salted caramel treats to complement the whisky's bold, smoky, and sweet notes.
- Collector's Delight: With its limited-edition status and exceptional quality, it's a must-have for collectors seeking a standout Japanese whisky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who produces the Kanosuke Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023?
The whisky is produced by the Kanosuke Distillery, located in Kagoshima on the southern tip of Japan's Kyushu Island. The distillery is known for combining traditional whisky-making techniques with expertise gained from 140 years of shochu production.
What makes this whisky unique?
This limited-edition single malt is crafted from a blend of peated and unpeated malts, double-distilled using a combination of three unique pot stills. It features a maturation process that includes ex-bourbon barrels, ex-Mellowed Kozuru rice shochu casks, and sherry casks, which contribute to its rich flavor and subtle smokiness.
What are the tasting notes for this whisky?
Experience robust aromas of cinnamon, pastry custard, banana, and smokey incense, followed by a weighty palate with flavors of black tea, salted caramel, baking spices, and a hint of salty-sweet smoke. The dry finish offers notes of milk chocolate, cinnamon, and raspberry jam doughnut filling.
What is the alcohol content?
This whisky is bottled at a cask strength of 59% ABV, offering a full-bodied and rich drinking experience.
Is this whisky peated?
Yes, this whisky includes a blend of malt peated to 50 ppm alongside unpeated malt, resulting in a smokey yet balanced profile.
What is the aging process of this whisky?
The whisky is aged for an average of 4–5 years in an assortment of casks, including the distillery's signature re-charred American white oak ex-shochu casks, as well as sherry and bourbon casks.
Has this whisky won any awards?
Yes, the Kanosuke Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023 received a gold medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, highlighting its exceptional quality.
Is coloring added to this whisky?
No, this whisky contains no added coloring and is non-chill filtered, ensuring its natural quality and full flavor.
Can this whisky be shipped internationally?
Shipping policies vary. For example, some retailers like BinBin Sake only ship within certain regions, such as New York State. Check with your local retailer for shipping availability.
What is the price of the Kanosuke Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023?
The price can vary by retailer, but it is commonly listed around 14,300 JPY (approximately $170 USD depending on location and taxes).
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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