Shunka Shuto “Summer” Japanese Blended Whisky Southern

40% ABV, 750 ml, casked in used Bourbon barrels

This Japanese blend is the summer expression of the Four Seasons collection. Reminiscent of warm summer days, it delivers a specific flavor profile of summer florals, fruits and vanilla flavors.

A brand-new venture, Shiki Distillery is located in the Hyogo Prefecture, just northwest of Osaka, Japan. Famous for its pristine nature, waters and mountains, the region is also the home of the best rice wine in Japan, Yamada Nishiki. Like many distilleries just starting out and preparing to distill their own spirits, Shiki Distillery began by curating and blending spirits from other producers – the best of Japan. Offering a collection of aged and unaged malt whiskies as well as blended whisky, the Four Seasons expressions are their first releases. The word “Shiki” means “four seasons” in Japanese and the four whiskies are intended to reflect the character of four seasons in Japan.

In Japan, the rainy season lasts from May to mid-July and the level of humidity is high even when it’s not raining as the temperature rises. In the south, the rainy season starts earlier than in the north – when the rain stops, real summer heat begins. Shunka Shuto Summer Japanese Blended Whisky is aged in white oak barrels and bottled at 80 proof. Designed to taste like warm summer days, this magnificent whisky blend delivers a specific flavor profile of summer florals, fruits and vanilla flavors.

“From the end of May to mid-July is the “rainy season” called “Tsuyu.” Even when it is not raining, the humidity increases as the temperature rises. The rainy season starts early in the southern part of Japan and gradually shifts northward, which takes about a month. When the rainy season ends, the real hot summer begins.

Tasting Notes
Fragrance: Vanilla
Taste: The fresh sweetness matches the richness of the aged barrel”