Shinobu – Mizunara Lightly Peated Pure Malt Whisky

A lightly peated blended malt from the Shinobu Distillery in Niigata, on the western coast of Japan. Master blender Usami Ken blends malts aged in sherry and bourbon hogsheads, then finishes them in Japanese Mizunara oak. It is bottled without chill-filtration or added colour. The blend is described as robust in body, with smoky, toasty oak. The nose is minty and creamy, with light peat, a touch of lemon and hints of charcoal ash. On the palate, moderate peat mingles with toasted oak, dry grass and a hint of saltiness. The finish is lingering, with toasted wood and the sweetness of roasted malt.