Description

The Shin Japanese Malt Whisky Mizunara Oak Finish (700ml)

Volume: 700ml             ABV: 43%           Age: No Age Statement          Country: Japan

The Whisky

Experience the “Spirit of the Samurai” with The Shin Blended Whisky – Mizunara Oak Finish. This expression is a testament to the art of Japanese blending and the unique influence of indigenous wood. Crafted by Mr. Ken Usami, the Master Blender at Shinobu Distillery, this whisky is a marriage of carefully selected malt and grain whiskies that have been finished in rare Mizunara Oak.

Mizunara, or “water oak,” is a notoriously difficult wood to work with due to its porous nature and slow growth, often requiring 200 years before it can be harvested for casks. Bottled at 48% ABV, this whisky is non-chill filtered and natural in colour. The result is a profile that balances the classic sweetness of a blend with the exotic, incense like aromatics that only Mizunara can provide.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Bright, elegant, and floral. You are greeted by a fragrant burst of orange peel and honey, followed by the signature Mizunara scent of sandalwood and Japanese incense. As it opens, subtle notes of roasted nuts and light oak emerge, creating a delicate yet complex bouquet.

Palate: The arrival is soft and “velvety,” delivering a gentle sweetness of toffee and vanilla. Mid-palate, the wood influence takes hold, layering oriental spices, black pepper, and ginger over a base of mellow malt. The texture is remarkably smooth, showcasing the “shokunin” (craftsman) dedication to balance.

Finish: Medium to long and pleasantly warming. The finish lingers with a final flourish of spiced oak and citrus zest, finally tapering off with a clean trail of hazelnut and a touch of floral honey.

The Distillery & Master Blender

Shinobu Distillery is located in the beautiful Niigata Prefecture, a region famous for its “Three White Treasures”: snow, rice, and sake. The word “Shinobu” means “forbearance” in Japanese, symbolising the patience required to mature spirits in the challenging Mizunara wood. Master Blender Ken Usami brings a wealth of experience from the brewing world to his whisky production, focusing on pure water sources and high quality wood management to create spirits that reflect the local Niigata climate.

Overall Review

The Shin Blended Whisky Mizunara Oak Finish is globally reviewed as an “excellent entry point” into the world of Mizunara maturation. It is praised for providing the sought-after sandalwood and spice notes of the rare oak at a more accessible price point than many age-statement Japanese malts. Critics have lauded its “refined and balanced” nature, marking it as a mandatory purchase for those who enjoy a smooth, floral blend with a uniquely Eastern twist.