Shizuoka United “S” First Edition (50.5%)

This United "S" is a combination of distillates from the Karuizawa still and the wood-fired still. The latter distillate is much heavier and gives this whisky more character. Both Japanese and European barley were used in the recipe, a small proportion of which was turfed. Maturation took place in ex-bourbon barrels, ex-bourbon quarter casks and barrels of new oak.

The marriage, after at least 3 years of separate maturation, between the 2 distillates gives this whisky a lovely mouthfeel without being too heavy. The lighter, fruitier and more delicate whisky of the "K" forms the first and upper part of the character of this whisky, after which the heavier distillate of the wood-fired "W" provides the firm base on which the whole rests. This "S" is therefore a model for Shizuoka's broad and beautiful flavour pattern.
The nose fills with honey, cream, vanilla and then moves through freshly toasted bread, with a pinch of peat, via white and yellow fruit to oak and the somewhat strange, but oh-so-delicious combination of smoke and stuffed cake. On the tongue, freshly cut flowers come along first, then biscuit, caramel, freshly roasted nuts and vanilla cream take over again. The finish is wonderfully opaque and very tasty without being too heavy. Already a delicious combination.