Shimauta Ryukyu Whisky

This whisky is distilled from Indica Rice, like Okinawan awamori. Those familiar with rice spirits like awamori and shochu will find some familiar character here. The nose opens with a familiar rice funk, with a powerful caramel undertoned by a subtle savory herbaciousness, perhaps reminiscent of basil. It smells exactly as I would expect an aged rice spirit to smell. The palate is darker than the nose would imply. There is a green fruitiness that is being surrounded by baking spice, pepper (both the seasoning and the vegetable) and a pleasing oak. The finish is dry and lengthy, with the spice and vegetal notes lingering on your tongue, whilst vanilla sits just at the back of the mouth alongside echoes of fresh green apple This is a delicious, unique whisky that may find common ground between sake drinkers, shochu drinkers, and whisky drinkers. I am excited to try it in a Japanese style highball, as I suspect the subtle brighter notes may sing with some lengthening. Heartily recommended.

This is a full-bodied Japanese spirit from Masahiro Distillery in Okinawa. It's crafted from 100% premium Indica rice and matured for at least five years in new oak barrels. The initial aroma presents notes of orchard fruits, berries, wood, florals, and spices. Its robust character unfolds with flavors of plum, pineapple, caramel, vanilla, and oak, concluding with a medium-length, floral finish that carries a hint of pepper. (December 2021)

Clear gold liquid with thick legs. Aroma of dry, earthy toffee. Flavor profile includes toffee, caramel, fruit, and earth. Medium body with a moderate warming sensation. 8/3/8/3/16, rated 3.8.