Akkeshi – Risshu Single Malt (70cl, 55%)

Akkeshi Risshu is a Japanese single malt in a 70cl bottle at 55% ABV. It belongs to the 24 Solar Terms Series and takes its name from the 13th solar term, the beginning of autumn. It is presented as a prelude to the final chapter of the series. The key malt is made entirely from Hokkaido barley, distilled in Akkeshi and matured in Mizunara oak casks. Other malt comes from the UK and New Zealand, and bourbon and sherry casks add further maturation. Gentle peat meets the aromatic woodiness of Mizunara. The nose is peach and apricot compote, orange bitters and lemongrass, with soft campfire smoke. The palate is smoky and peaty with lemon cake and gingerbread, medium-bodied and creamy. The finish brings coarsely ground black pepper.