Kujira Ryukyu Whisky 12 Year Old is an Okinawan rice whisky matured in sherry casks for twelve years and bottled at 40% ABV.
Kujira, meaning whale, is made in Okinawa in the tradition of the Ryukyu islands, where spirits have long been distilled from rice. The twelve years in sherry casks give the rice spirit raisins, caramel and dried fruit, set against its own lighter, sweet and slightly earthy base.
The nose shows raisins and caramel from the sherry casks, with vanilla, leather, sweet plums and mint and hints of orange and anise. The palate brings molasses, caramel, corn syrup and a woody note, and the finish balances sweet and sour.
Presented in its striking whale-art gift box, it makes a memorable gift for Japanese whisky fans.
Enjoy it neat or with a drop of water.
Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, has a warm, humid subtropical climate. In such conditions spirit interacts with the wood more quickly than in cooler regions, so twelve years in cask on the island brings deep cask influence.
Sherry casks are among the most prized in whisky making. Having held fortified wine from Spain, they pass on notes of dried fruit, raisins, nuts and spice, and over a long maturation they give the whisky its rich amber colour.
Rice whisky remains rare in the wider whisky world, which makes this bottle an interesting choice for those who want to explore beyond barley-based malts.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: Raisins, caramel, vanilla, leather, plum and mint.
-
Palate: Molasses, caramel and woody notes.
-
Finish: Balanced sweet and sour.
Specifications
-
Producer: Kujira Ryukyu Whisky
-
Style: Japanese Rice Whisky
-
Age: 12 years
-
Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV)
-
Cask / Finish: Sherry casks
-
Region: Okinawa, Japan
-
Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it neat or with a drop of water. It pairs with dried fruit, dark chocolate or teriyaki dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is it made from?
Rice, in the Ryukyu tradition of Okinawa.
How old is it?
12 years, matured in sherry casks.
What proof is it?
It is bottled at 40% ABV.
Explore more in our Whiskey collection.
