Yamazaki launches 2016 Sherry Cask

Suntory Whisky will be launching the Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2016 into the Australian market in February 2016.

Last year the 2013 Yamazaki Sherry Cask was named the World Whisky of the Year in Jim Murray’s whisky bible and the 2016 blend incorporates the same whiskies that made up the base of the 2013. The whiskies in the 2016 blend have enjoyed an extra two years of maturation and some of the whiskies used are over 25 years old.

Suntory’s chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo is the great grandson of founder Shinjiro Torii and he chose from over 100 whiskies when creating the 2016 Yamazaki Sherry Cask.

Narelle McDonald, Beam Suntory marketing manager for premium brands, said: “Shinji Fukuyo has designed a journey in this whisky. The Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2016 is undeniably where Spain meets Japan in the form of a whisky.

“To fully enjoy this journey, Fukuyo recommends the whisky first be served neat to showcase its nose. On its own, there is a clear and fresh top note. A raisin-like, deep sweetness that is both elegant and rich.”

She added: “You immediately taste the complexity of this liquid, and the fine balance of maturity and delicateness. Served on the rocks, the flavour opens as you begin to taste the Delaware grape-like sweetness and its slightly bitter acidity. When cut with water, there is a soft sweetness that blossoms like the first apples of the harvest.”

Described as having a “deep richness, mellowness and complexity of flavours”, the Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2016 has a 48 per cent alcohol content and will be available in selected specialist whisky  bars and retailers from February 2016, with a $450 RRP.