Ontake First Edition 2023 Single Malt Japanese Whisky

This is the inaugural release from the Ontake distillery which has been matured in first-fill solera sherry butts and bottled in 2023. Non-chill filtered and bottled at a very approachable ABV of 43% this is an excellent and enjoyable Whisky from this new distillery in Kagoshima, Japan.

Color: Amber Nose: Aromatic dry fruits, figs and plums Palate: A rich sweetness reminding of raisins and figs, some pear compote and apricot, some spices, and subtle toasty savory notes Finish: Lingering spices with a warm finish of chocolate.

Ontake distillery lies atop the hills of Kagoshima (on the Kyushu Island of Japan) and is Nishi Shuzo's latest venture into Whisky. With a long history since 1845, Nishi Shuzo have established themselves as a very high quality Shochu producer and more recently Sake. Their first new make ran through Ontake's stills in 2019, and all whisky releases are likely to be exclusively matured in old sherry casks.