Matsui Shuzo 'The Kurayoshi' 8 Year Old Pure Malt Whisky
(Japan) - [IWSC 92] [USC 94]

About the Whisky:
8 year old blended malt whisky from The Kurayoshi range, produced by Matsui Shuzou in the Tottori Prefecture. These whiskies are made with a blend of Scotch and Japanese malt whiskies, brought down to bottling strength with volcanic-stone-filtered water.

Kurayoshi:
Matsui Shuzou was founded in 1910 and is located in the Tottori Prefecture northwest of Kyoto on the shore of the Sea of Japan. Fresh ground water from the Tottori prefecture wilderness is a blessing from the earth and is used to bring the Kurayoshi Whisky to proof. It is a very tasty, mellow characteristic of whisky deserving of the name Kurayoshi, the city of water and green. Tottori is known for its soft mineral water and abundance of nature. Over 14% of the total land area of the prefecture is designated as Natural Park.

Awards/Reviews:

94 Points, Finalist - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2023

"Notes of taffy, earthy mushroom broth, roasted soybeans, and a hint of smoked sea salt entice the senses. The palate reveals a subtle charred cedar smokiness, which lingers gracefully in the finish. A stunning combination of flavors that offers depth and intrigue."

Double Gold - SF World Spirits Competition 2022

92 Points - Intl Wine & Spirits Competition 2021

"Fresh apricot, lemon and oat aromas. The palate has a tropical flair with buttery undertones and a touch of honey."

"Heady with spring blossoms, mixed peel, cantaloupe, green banana, and taffy candy, with a fine thread of spices running through it. A hesitant opening, it wallows in gentle apple and orange before a strong tangerine streak appears, the mouthfeel becoming weightier, drawing through flavors of peppery herbal salad leaves and vanilla cream. The spices take the lead from then on, the fruit fading quickly in the peppery afterglow."       - Whisky Advocate