Kaiyō The Rubi is a Japanese malt whisky from 100% malted barley, matured in Mizunara oak, finished in former Ruby Port pipes and bottled at 46% ABV without chill filtration.
Kaiyō, meaning ocean, is known for maturing whisky at sea. The Rubi spends three years in Mizunara oak, then travels by ship for three months, followed by seven more years of ageing in Japan. A four-month finish in Ruby Port pipes gives the release its name and colour.
Mizunara is a rare Japanese oak, prized by whisky makers and slow to grow, and here it is paired with a Ruby Port finish. Whisky Advocate scored it 90 points, noting the wide range of flavour on offer.
The calligraphy label makes it a distinctive gift for Japanese whisky fans.
Enjoy it neat to appreciate the Mizunara character.
Japanese whisky follows the Scottish tradition of malted barley and careful cask management, but it is known for its precision and balance. Mizunara oak is among the most expensive and challenging woods to cooper, as the trees grow slowly and the wood is porous, so whiskies matured in it are relatively rare.
Ruby Port is a young, fruity style of fortified wine from Portugal's Douro Valley, and a short finish in casks that held it adds colour and a fresh red-fruit edge. Bottling at 46% without chill filtration preserves the natural oils and mouthfeel of the whisky.
Tasting Notes
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Wood: Three years in Mizunara oak, plus seven more in Japan.
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Finish cask: Four months in Ruby Port pipes.
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Strength: 46% ABV, non-chill filtered.
Specifications
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Producer: Kaiyō Whisky
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Style: Japanese Malt Whisky
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Expression / Batch: The Rubi
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Proof / ABV: 92 proof (46% ABV)
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Cask / Finish: Mizunara oak, finished 4 months in Ruby Port pipes
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Region: Japan
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Serve it neat. It pairs with dark chocolate, red berries or aged cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the finish?
Four months in former Ruby Port pipes.
How is it aged?
Three years in Mizunara, three months at sea, then seven more years in Japan.
What proof is it?
It is bottled at 46% ABV.
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