Shinobu Mizunara Oak Finish Blended Whisky Review.

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 Shinobu Mizunara Oak Finish Blended Whisky Review.

    I received this spirit as a review sample from CNS Wine & Spirits. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.



    Now I am a of Japanese whiskey. I love the nods it gives to its Scottish roots but still brings in that subtle flavors that Japanese culture is known for. Now this release from Shinobu not only blends two types of Japanese whiskey together but then finishes it in Mizunara Oak. If you are unsure what Mizunara Oak is, basically it is Japanese Oak that is 200 years old. It tends to bring a subtle spice with a cedar and sandalwood note for me. Several Japanese whiskeys use Mizunara to add these finishes to their whiskey and I am a big fan of them. Being a 50/50 blend of grain and malt whiskey I am excited to see how well they play together with that finish!



For the full video review visit the link here!: https://youtu.be/NStiVrXZTBw

Age Statement: N/A.

ABV: 43%.

Mashbill: 50% grain whiskey & 50% malt whiskey.

Area of Distillation: Niigata, Japan.

Finishing: Mizunara Oak.

Appearance: Light golden color.


On the nose:
    Initially the nose is dominated by grassy, earthy grain notes. This is nicely complemented by sweet undertones reminiscent of light apples. A delightful spice layer emerges, mingling with a buttery richness that adds complexity. Hints of plum and mixed berries make their appearance, rounded off by a subtle smokiness, a gentle whisper rather than a dominant feature.


Taste:
    On the palate, the experience is equally rewarding. The first sip delivers a robust earthiness and spice, reminiscent of incense burning, think patchouli and floral notes. The apple sweetness returns, accompanied by that lovely cedar and sandalwood influence from the Mizunara Oak. The texture is intriguing; while there are youthful elements in the flavor profile, there's also a clinginess that suggests some maturity, likely due to the careful cask finishing.


Finish:
    The ex-bourbon cask adds creamy vanilla and caramel notes. The finish is where the Mizunara Oak truly shines, offering a lasting spiciness and light oakiness. After a few sips, there is a bit of youth on the taste. It isn't off putting, but it does show just slightly as a bitter note.


Final Thoughts:
    If you're looking to explore the nuances of Japanese whiskey, I can recommend giving this whiskey a try. It’s a solid introduction to the genre and an enjoyable experience overall. Mizunara Oak brings that nice bit of spice and cedar notes to play. The only drawback I found was a slight youthfulness in some flavor aspects. But, for the prince, it showcases a true Japanese whiskey.


Rating: B- (Fairly good).

Cost: $49.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here!: https://youtu.be/NStiVrXZTBw

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt

Learn more about Shinobu Distillery via the link here!: https://shinobudistillery.com/

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