Kanosuke – Single Malt Japanese Whisky Second Release 2021 (70cl, 57%)

This is the second release from the Kanosuke Distillery, which stands on the shore at Fukiagehama beach in Kagoshima. It is a single malt distilled from unpeated malt in 2018. The whisky is largely matured in first-fill, re-charred ex-bourbon barrels for about three years or more. About 5,000 bottles were released at a cask strength of 57% ABV, in a 70cl bottle. Amber in colour, it has a nose of citrus, vanilla, honey and lemon tea. The palate brings grapefruit with a cinnamon sweetness, and the finish balances sweet fresh fruit and vanilla against dark chocolate bitterness.