Ontake 1st Mitake Fill Solera Sherry Butts

Distillery Bottling

Bottled: 2023

Distillation: Pot Still

Aging: 3 years old

Cask: Solera Sherry Butts

ABV: 43%

Distillery info:

The Ontake Distillery was established by Nishi Shuzo, a company with a rich history dating back to 1845. Today, Nishi Shuzo is primarily recognized for its line of sweet potato shochus marketed under the brand name Houzan. The company is also the creator of Tenshi no Yuuwaku, which earned a Superior Gold award in the Shochu division at TWSC 2020.

Kagoshima City, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, is renowned for three main attractions: the iconic and active Sakurajima volcano, the legendary "Last True Samurai," Saigo Takamori, and its exceptional shochu bars. The Ontake Distillery is situated about a 20-minute drive from downtown Kagoshima, perched on a mountain that overlooks the city. Currently, there are no public transport options or shuttle services to the distillery, so visitors must arrive via private car or taxi.

The distillery benefits from an abundant spring water source flowing at approximately 1000 liters per minute, which also serves the nearby golf course. Whisky is distilled and matured at an elevation of 400 meters, where the air remains clear and cool, even during summer months. The distillery utilizes yeast cultivated on-site, carefully selected two-row barley, and vintage sherry barrels, all backed by nearly 180 years of distilling expertise.

Bottling info:

This single malt whisky has been crafted at the Ontake Distillery since 2019. Situated with a view of Sakurajima (Ontake) in Kinko Bay, the location is cool and ideal for storage throughout the hot season. Most importantly, it boasts an abundance of pure, natural soft water that is filtered and polished over time, making it perfect for whisky production. In this environment, where pure aspirations and pristine water converge, we remain committed to the challenge of creating authentic Japanese whisky.

The whisky is made from the highest quality non-peated two-row barley, utilizing natural soft water sourced from 300 meters underground at a flow rate exceeding 1,000 liters per minute. The casks play a crucial role in our whisky, and we exclusively use old sherry casks.

Tasting Note:

The whisky presents a clear amber hue. Its aromatic profile is rich and fragrant, featuring a delightful blend of sweet baked apples and apricots, fresh citrus, spices, and a savory, toasty essence. The palate is dry, yet a rich flavor reminiscent of fruitcake and vanilla emerges, gradually developing into a full-bodied experience. The finish is smooth and long-lasting.

This bottling has been awarded a Gold Medal by the San Francisco World Spirits Awards 2024 tasting committee!