Iichiko Silhouette Mugi Shochu (75cl, 25%)

Iichiko Silhouette is a single-distilled barley shochu from Sanwa Shurui in Oita Prefecture, on Japan's island of Kyushu. It is bottled at 25% ABV in a 75cl bottle. It is made from 100% two-row barley fermented with white koji kin. Two distillation methods are used: low-pressure distillation for a lighter, more aromatic spirit, and atmospheric-pressure distillation for fuller body and deeper grain character. The two are blended before bottling. The nose is delicately floral, with a hint of berries and toasted grain. The palate is soft and nearly neutral, with gentle barley sweetness, a little umami, citrus peel and light nuttiness, leaning dry and clean. The finish is medium-short with a mild bite and a faint floral note.