Exploring the Japanese Whiskies of Tottori

Federico Leone’s (BBC Spirits specialist) masterclasses are truly special for a couple of reasons. 

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First and foremost, the selection of products is always exceptional, making each tasting a real pleasure. 

Second, Federico is a master storyteller. 

His ability to engage and captivate an audience makes every masterclass feel like a trip.

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This time Federico Leone takes us on a journey to the Tottori Prefecture, a remote area known for its rugged natural beauty. 

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Tottori, located along Japan’s western coast, is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including sand dunes and mountain ranges, which provide a peaceful and isolated setting. 

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The serene environment of Tottori is the backdrop for the creation of Kurayoshi Distillery, a place where nature and tradition come together to craft exceptional Japanese whisky.

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The Kurayoshi Distillery

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The Kurayoshi Distillery was founded with a focus on preserving Japanese heritage and creating a distinct whisky profile. 

Situated in the heart of Tottori, the distillery combines age-old techniques with innovation, making it a standout in the world of Japanese whisky. 

Their approach is rooted in nature, using locally sourced ingredients and time-honored methods to produce their spirits.

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The Production Process at Kurayoshi Distillery

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Kurayoshi’s production process is a meticulous journey through different stages, each crucial to the final product. Let’s explore the key steps involved:

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1. Mugi (Barley) - Japanese barley grown in Tottori Prefecture is used to create a rich and authentic flavor profile, deeply connected to the region.
2. Seifun (Milling) - The milling process is done by hand, ensuring the grains are properly prepared to extract the best flavors during fermentation.
3. Toka (Saccharification) - This step involves converting the starches in the barley into sugars, which is a vital part of the whisky production process.
4. Hakko (Fermentation) - The fermentation is carried out naturally, allowing the flavors to develop slowly and organically.
5. Joryu (Distillation) - The distillation is done in traditional pot stills made in Japan, ensuring the whisky retains a smooth and pure character.
6. Jukusei (Aging) - The whisky is first aged in bourbon barrels for the first three years, following tradition. After that, the distillery experiments with Mizunara (Japanese oak) and Sakura (cherry blossom wood) barrels to create unique flavor profiles.

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Tasting Notes

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The Tottori - Blended Japanese Whisky Aged in Bourbon Barrel (43°)

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This whisky is aged for at least three years in bourbon barrels, which impart classic spicy, vanilla, and caramel notes. It has a beautiful color and an elegant, persistent mouthfeel. 

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When it comes to Japanese whiskies, especially the base products, the highball is often a popular choice, and this whisky’s persistency makes it perfect for that use.

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The Matsui - Single Malt Japanese Whisky The Peated (48°)

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A well-balanced peated whisky, this expression brings a fresh and fruity flavor profile, closing with a smoky peat finish. It’s an interesting take on a peated whisky that is both approachable and complex.

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The Matsui - Sakura Single Malt Single Cask (48°)

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This whisky undergoes its final maturation in Sakura barrels, which impart a floral and delicate nose. On the palate, it’s graceful yet enveloping and warm, with a persistent finish that brings back the floral notes. 

It’s a unique and distinctive product that offers a fascinating combination of delicate aromas and robust flavors.

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The Matsui - Mizunara Single Malt Single Cask (48°)

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Matured in Mizunara oak barrels, this whisky is rich and spicy, with almost peppery notes and a strong presence of wood. 

It has a complex, aromatic profile that showcases the uniqueness of Mizunara oak, making it a distinctive and highly successful expression.

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The Kurayoshi - Pure Malt Whisky 12 YO (43°)

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This is the classic offering from the distillery, and it can easily stand up to the finest Scotch whiskies. 

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With its complexity and maturity, it embodies the tradition of Japanese whisky making while offering an experience that is both familiar and deeply satisfying. 

A truly classic expression from Kurayoshi Distillery.

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Federico Leone:

‍https://www.instagram.com/federico_leone84/

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BBC Spirits:

https://www.instagram.com/bbcspirits/

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