Shibui 18 Year Single Grain Japanese Whisky (750Ml)

Description

Shibui 18 Year is a single grain whisky from the Kumesen Distillery, on the southern tip of Okinawa, Japan. Kumesen was built in 1952. The whisky is distilled, aged and bottled there.

It is made from indica rice, fermented with Okinawan black koji. The spirit is distilled once in a stainless steel pot still. It then spends 18 years in refill fino and manzanilla sherry casks. Those lighter sherry styles leave a gentle mark. The color is natural, and it is bottled at 40% ABV.

The nose opens with milk chocolate, then soft cereal and caramelized walnuts. On the palate you find chocolate-covered red cherries and Madagascan vanilla bean. A line of black licorice runs underneath. The finish is soft and sweet, with oak and a nutty note that lingers.

Critics have rated it well. It scored 91 points at the 2021 Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Whisky Advocate gave it 89 points.

Pour it neat, or over one large cube, and let it sit for a minute. It goes nicely with dark chocolate, smoked nuts or a creamy cheese. If you enjoy gentle, chocolate-rich whisky, this is a bottle worth exploring.

Product Details

• UPC: 852121008157
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• ABV: 40%
• Origin / Country: Okinawa, Japan
• Type: Single Grain Whisky
• Brand: Shibui
• Distillery / Producer: Kumesen Distillery (built 1952)
• Grain / Mash Bill: Indica rice, Okinawan black koji
• Age Statement: 18 Years
• Cask Type: Refill fino and manzanilla sherry casks
• Awards: 91 points, Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021; 89 points, Whisky Advocate
• Recommended Pairing: Dark chocolate, smoked nuts, creamy cheeses
• Mixing Suggestion: Neat or over one large ice cube
• Taste Profile: Chocolate-covered red cherries, Madagascan vanilla bean, black licorice
• Aroma & Bouquet: Milk chocolate, soft cereal, caramelized walnuts
• Smooth & Finish: Soft, sweet oak with a lingering nuttiness