Shibui 10 Year Old Pure Malt Whisky (75cl, 43%)

Shibui 10 Year Old is a pure malt whisky from the Niigata Range, blending Japanese and Lowland Scotch malt whiskies. It is made from 100% malted barley and double distilled in copper pot stills. The malts were matured for at least ten years in American ex-bourbon barrels and European Oloroso sherry casks, then finished in Japanese mizunara oak. It is non-chill filtered and of natural colour. It was named Best Asian Whisky in the World at the 2023 International Wine & Spirit Competition, with 96 points. The notes describe a floral nose of freshly ground barley, honeyed fruitcake and sweet spices, then buttery vanilla caramel, rich dates and pear chutney, with coffee, dark chocolate and spiced oak. The finish is balanced and lengthy.