Nankai Imo Black Shochu (24%)

This is a sweet potato (imo) shochu in the honkaku style, distilled with black koji in small batches on the Amami Islands of Japan. It is 24% vol. The spirit has a deep, earthy character, with the richness of sweet potato layered with roasted nuts, black tea and stone fruit. It can be served neat, on the rocks or with hot or cold water. The nose is earthy and nutty, with toasted rice, black tea and savoury herbs. The palate is smooth and dry, with sweet potato, sesame, plum and umami, and the finish is clean and lightly tannic with a lingering roasted note.