SUNTORY RELEASES REMARKABLE BOURBON BARREL EXPRESSIONS

London, August 1, 2011 – Two remarkable expressions of limited edition Yamazaki and Hakushu single malts, aged in Bourbon barrels, will be released in September. Only 3,000 bottles of each expression are available in Europe.

The Yamazaki and Hakushu share similar presentation, but differing flavour profiles. Both are non-aged (vatted 10-15 year malts) non-chill filtered and bottled at an ABV 48.2 %, priced at £69.50 per 70 cl bottle.

The meticulous attention to detail which characterises Suntory whisky is apparent at every stage of production from preparation of the spirit in the distilleries of Yamazaki and Hakushu to maturation in   different temperature zones.

When used to age Yamazaki and Hakushu, the 180-litre  white oak casks – smaller than most whisky barrels – impart elegant aromas and sweet vanilla flavours.

Yamazaki Bourbon barrel is stored in cellars in the Yamazaki and Oumi regions where nature is in rhythm with the seasons. The result is distinctively Japanese
whisky with an uncommon aroma and a smooth,lingering sweet flavour.

Hakushu is aged deep in the Hakushu forest, 700 metres above sea level in the shadow of Mt Kaikomagatake in the southern alps. The cool climate imparts a mild, refreshing taste and crisp, citrus aromas with a distinctive vanilla flavour.    

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Kazuyuki Takayama, Suntory Marketing Manager for Europe, says: “These single malts  express the art of Japanese whisky in ways which are intriguing and beguiling.  These 180-litre casks are most susceptible to the surrounding atmosphere and produce whiskies which are distinctive to the region where they are aged”.

The tasting profiles are:

Yamazaki single malt Bourbon barrel
Colour: dark amber. Aroma: vanilla, honey, caramel.
Taste: robust, woody
Finish: slightly sweet, pleasantly lingering

Hakushu single malt Bourbon barrel
Colour: gold. Aroma: tropical fruits, citrus, vanilla
Taste: light, smooth.
Finish: refreshing, clean

Suntory whiskies are distributed in the UK by Cellar Trends. For all sales enquiries contact Cellar Trends, Tel: 01283 217703 www.cellartrends.co.uk