Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey is a Japanese Whisky from the Kikori Whiskey brand crafted in Japan.
Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey breaks from tradition by using rice instead of malted barley, creating a smooth, delicate spirit that's more akin to sake than typical whiskey. Interestingly, Kikori is aged in a combination of American oak, French limousin oak, and sherry casks for a minimum of three years, resulting in a unique flavor profile that combines the lightness of rice with the complexity of wood aging.
Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey offers cocktail enthusiasts a delightfully smooth and versatile spirit that stands out from traditional grain-based whiskeys. Distilled from 100% local Japanese rice and aged for a minimum of three years in a combination of American oak, French oak, and ex-sherry casks, Kikori delivers a light, floral character with hints of tropical fruit and vanilla that shines in both simple highballs and complex cocktails alike.
Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey shines when sipped neat or on the rocks, allowing its delicate flavors to unfold, but it also excels in lighter cocktails that don't overpower its subtle nuances. This versatile spirit is perfect for warm summer evenings, pairing beautifully with fresh seafood dishes or light Asian cuisines that complement its gentle, slightly sweet character.
Nose: Light and delicate with hints of melon, pear, and tropical fruit. A subtle vanilla sweetness emerges, accompanied by fresh floral notes and a touch of oak.
Palate: Smooth and gentle, with flavors of ripe pear and green apple. Subtle rice notes blend with honey and vanilla. A mild spiciness reminiscent of white pepper adds complexity. The mouthfeel is silky and light-bodied.
Finish: Medium-length and clean. Lingering notes of vanilla and oak, with a slight warmth. A faint sweetness reminiscent of marshmallow appears, followed by a crisp, dry conclusion.
Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey is crafted from locally sourced rice that's fermented, distilled, and aged in a combination of American oak, French oak, and sherry casks for a minimum of three years. This unique production method, which uses rice instead of the traditional barley or corn, results in a distinctively smooth and delicate whiskey that showcases the subtle flavors of its base grain while incorporating the complex notes imparted by the diverse aging vessels.
I am not a fan of whiskey. As a matter of fact, my best friend and I had tried many brands and drink recipes while watching Mad Men. I gave my son many brands of whiskey because it just wasn't my thing. I don't know why but I decided to try Kikori Japanese Rice Whiskey. It was smooth and mixed well with some Asian drink recipes. Although I am more a fan of vodka, I will continue to mix this with some exotic ingredients for a change of pace.
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