Ohishi “‘K&L Exclusive”‘ Single Sherry Cask #1023 Japanese Whisky (750ml) ($74.99)

The Ohishi distillery is located on the banks of the Kuma River, one Japan’s fastest flowing rivers. The distillery was founded in 1872 and produces some of the most exciting whisky coming out of Japan. Ohishi grows at least 30% of the rice that they distill, and the fertile soils and exceptional growing climate make for some of the finest base ingredients available. The strain of rice is called “gohyakumanishi” (meaning “five million stones”), and an organic method of cultivation is utilized that requires the use of koi carp for weed control. The rest of the grain is procured from local farms in Kumamoto prefecture and is of the short grained Mochi variety. The grains are partially malted and then distilled on the traditional Japanese stills before being filled into ex-sherry and brandy casks and aged for a long time time in high-altitude warehouses. This cask brings in a great balanced sherry influence and definitely feels more like Scotch than our single cask from the Fukano Distillery. This cask will likely be the only one we get for a while, considering the recent events in Kumamoto prefecture. Our last cask sold out in a flash, so we can expect this special cask to go very quickly as well.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 13, 2016

This magic little cask of Ohishi proves again there is just nothing wrong with rice whisky, nothing at all. The nose is wonderfully fresh and keeps you on your feet for a big dose of fresh cut apple, followed by a deep dark Oloroso note, and sweet caramelized citrus. Subtle yet full of life, the whole thing builds and brings you some lovely hints of funk around these very pretty fruit flavors. The palate is pretty weighty, but balance is the key factor. The freshness isn’t lost at all, and some cocoa and barrel spice along with dark vanilla bean and slight earthy warehouse funk take over. It’s so utterly drinkable it will be difficult to put down, if you know what I’m saying. Beware!

Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637) Email: wine@klwines.com

K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA

San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA