New expression joins Hatozaki’s core range of whiskies
JAPANESE whisky brand Hatozaki Whisky has unveiled its new Triple Cask Reserve as a new, permanent addition to its core range of drams.
This latest expression showcases a rare finishing technique, according to Kaikyō Distillery – the distiller behind Hatozaki, as it has been finished in Umeshu plum liqueur casks, a method rarely seen in the whisky world and unique to Japan.
Featuring a blend of hand-selected whiskies, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve is first aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry barrels before it moves on to the final Umeshu plum liqueur casks.
Known as Ume in Japan, Umeshu is a traditional liqueur made using local green plums. The additional maturation to the whisky delivers delicate layers of zesty citrus, tea-like herbal notes and a subtle plum sweetness, resulting in a complex flavour profile that sets this whisky apart.
The final bottle comes in at 46% ABV with a price of £58 and joins the brand’s core range made up of the Hatozaki Finest Whisky and Small Batch Whisky.
Kimio Yonezawa, master distiller at Kaikyō Distillery, said: “Finishing a whisky in Umeshu casks is rare in the whisky world, and I was eager to see how the Japanese plum liqueur’s flavours would transform the blend.
“The umeshu influence adds an extra layer of depth and gentle sweetness that truly sets Triple Cask Reserve apart from more traditional whiskies.”
