Kaiyo The Kuri is one of the first whiskies aged full term in first-fill Japanese kuri chestnut barrels, a Japanese malt whisky aged seven years and bottled at 46% ABV.
Kuri, Castanea crenata, is the Japanese chestnut, a small to medium-sized deciduous tree whose wood is rarely used for whisky casks. Kaiyo, meaning ocean, built this release entirely around it, letting the unusual wood shape the whisky from start to finish.
The Kuri opens with drying wood notes and an incense-like spice, balanced by fragrant lavender, with roasted chestnut, vanilla and caramel.
A rare chestnut-cask whisky, it makes a memorable gift for Japanese whisky collectors.
Sip it neat or with a drop of water.
Japanese whisky has earned a worldwide reputation for balance and precision, and limited releases from its historic distilleries are among the most sought-after bottles for collectors.
Japanese whisky makers have long drawn on Scottish methods, using malted barley, pot stills and patient maturation, while developing a style known for balance and precision.
Most whisky is aged in oak; chestnut is softer and more porous, so it gives up its flavour quickly and brings nutty, spicy and slightly floral character quite unlike oak.
First-fill means the barrels had never held whisky before, so the chestnut wood's influence is at its strongest.
Bottled at 46% ABV, it keeps more texture and flavour than a standard 40% whisky.
Releases like The Kuri show how Japanese makers explore native woods, as they have famously done with Mizunara oak.
A few drops of water open up the lavender and spice.
Tasting Notes
-
Wood: Drying wood and incense-like spice.
-
Florals: Fragrant lavender.
-
Sweetness: Roasted chestnut, vanilla and caramel.
Specifications
-
Brand: Kaiyo
-
Style: Japanese Malt Whisky
-
Age: 7 years
-
Proof / ABV: 92 proof (46% ABV)
-
Cask / Finish: First-fill Japanese kuri chestnut barrels
-
Region: Japan
-
Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a little water. It pairs with roasted chestnuts, sushi or honey cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kuri?
The Japanese chestnut, Castanea crenata.
How long is it aged?
Seven years, full term in chestnut barrels.
What strength is it?
46% ABV.
Explore more in our Whiskey collection.
