Sakurao Single Malt

Sakurao Single Malt is one of the first whiskies distilled entirely in Japan by Sakurao Distillery, formerly known as Chugoku Jozo. The distillery was previously known for Togouchi, a whisky aged in a railway tunnel in the Hiroshima mountains using sourced spirit from overseas. Sakurao represents a clear shift toward full Japanese provenance, being distilled, matured, and bottled in Japan.

Aged in the coastal environment of Sakurao, the whisky is matured across four cask types: ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, American oak, and Mizunara oak. This diverse cask makeup adds balance and complexity to a youthful spirit, layering fresh fruit, gentle sweetness, and subtle spice. Bottled at 43% and non chill filtered, it retains good texture and flavour, with a light touch of peat adding understated depth.

Tasting Notes

Nose
Fresh and clean, showing apple, pear, and citrus peel alongside honey, vanilla, and light oak spice. A faint earthy hint of peat sits quietly in the background.

Palate
Smooth and well-balanced, with sweet malt and vanilla leading into stone fruit and soft caramel. Gentle oak tannin builds structure, while Mizunara contributes delicate spice notes of white pepper and sandalwood. Peat remains subtle and restrained.

Finish
Clean and medium in length, lingering with soft sweetness, mild spice, and polished oak, finishing with a light earthy note.