Matsui Shuzo 'The Kurayoshi' Sherry Cask Pure Malt Whisky
(Japan) - [USC 95] [IWSC 90]

About the Whisky:
A sherried expression from the Kurayoshi range, created by little-known Japanese whisky producer Matsui Shuzou (also known for sake and shochu). These whiskies are blended malts, made with whiskies distilled in Scotland and shipped over to Japan, where they're blended with Japanese whisky.

Maturation: American white oak, Spanish sherry cask finished

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:

Gold - SF World Spirits Competition 2023

95 Points, Finalist - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2023

"Shows a pungent nose of iodine, orange blossom, key lime pie, and a hint of sweet malted barley. The palate is rich and layered with flavors of ripe cherry, toasted cocoa, banana bread, and a whisper of wood smoke."

90 Points - Intl Wine & Spirits Competition 2023

"Delicate fruity nose with pear, apple, citrus, light vanilla and oak. Complex palate with smooth honeycomb, caramel and dark chocolate; an undertone of peppercorns."

Double Gold - SF World Spirits Competition 2022

"Expressive with apple, vanilla fudge and sweet spiced notes. A hint of pastry and oats."

-Intl Wine & Spirits Competition 2021