The Kurayoshi 18 years

Tasting Notes by Jim Murray (Whisky Bible 2022): 95.5 points

n23.5 such a delicate nose: rice paper infused with the lightest heather-honey and the most apologetic nuance of smoke…;

t24 just brilliant…! Though the heather-honey is little more than a coded message on the nose, it arrives on the palate like an Emperor upon a throne. And although salivating, there is a depth beyond the simple broadcast of sugar and grist. Sugars are extracted from the tannins, also and these have a spicy hue. This is all about layering and subtlety, and it is hard to imagine that they could have got it better than this…;

f24 the spices buzz on. A little cocoa bitterness now as the honey tones have receded. A little molasses compensates excellently;

b24 a malt which celebrates its great age in style and considerable complexity. Indeed, so complex, each mouthful brings you a little stand and nuance you are sure wasn’t there before. Definitely knocking on the door as Japanese Whisky of the Year. 50% ncf

Kurayoshi Distillery

Kurayoshi Distillery is located in Japan's serene Tottori Prefecture, a region known for its pristine nature and pure water sources. Founded by Matsui Shuzo, a company with a rich history dating back to 1910, Kurayoshi only started producing whisky in 2015. Previously, Matsui Shuzo was best known for producing sake and shochu, but the growing international demand for Japanese whisky led to the creation of Kurayoshi Distillery.

A unique feature of Kurayoshi Distillery is the use of pure water from nearby Daisen Mountain, which contributes to the freshness and smoothness of their whiskies. The whiskies are matured in various types of casks, including ex-bourbon and sherry casks, which creates a rich, complex flavour with well-balanced notes of honey, vanilla, and subtle spices.

Kurayoshi whiskies are known for their refined and elegant character, which is reflected in the careful selection and blending of whiskies that vary in age and cask maturation. The combination of a unique location, high-quality ingredients and a strong commitment to quality makes Kurayoshi Distillery an important name in the world of Japanese whisky.