Whisky: Mt. Fuji Japanese Blend
Producer: Kirin Distillery Company
Distillery: Mt. Fuji Distillery
Whisky Type: Blended Japanese Whisky
Region: City of Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Age: NAS
ABV: 46%
Cask: American white oak
Price Range: $$
Mt. Fuji Distillery was established in 1973 by Kirin-Seagram Co., Ltd., the joint venture among Kirin Brewery Co., Ltd., Joseph E Seagram and Sons, Inc., and Chivas Brothers. The distillery sits in the town of Gotemba known for mild temperatures, altitude, and relatively low humidity. All of these factors match Scotland’s profile perfectly.
The distillery benefited from the equipment, technology, and expertise of Scottish, Canadian, and Japanese distilleries. The goal was to make approachable whisky that would appeal to Japanese customers, who would probably purchase Scotch or Canadian blends.
What makes Mt. Fuji distillery special is its ability to make four types of whiskies:
- Single Malt Scotch style through pot stills.
- Light-Scottish delicate style through multi-column stills.
- Medium-Mellow Canadian style through kettle and column still.
- Heavy-Fruity American style through a beer still and a doubler.
On top of that, all phases of the production process, including bottling, are done in-house. Also, because Kirin owns Four Roses, it can benefit (at no cost) from the Bourbon barrels and the Kentucky expertise. Now the notes:
Tasting Notes for Fuji Japanese Blend
Nose: Tropical fruits with a touch of vanilla that reminds me of bourbon. Adding water accentuates the bourbon aromas.
Palate: A light, fruity and creamy arrival that develops into a moderate alcohol kick with dry and bitter notes of oak. The cereal (malt) flavor is there but is playing second fiddle to the sweet notes. Adding water brings down the bitterness and dials up the sweetness.
Finish: Long. The dry sensation of oak notes lingers for a few seconds, but adding water mellows the blend significantly.
Conclusion: A good Japanese blend that would have fooled me in a blind tasting with the bourbon nose. However, the palate is not bourbon style, yet light and approachable. Those looking for a Japanese blend on a budget ($60) without getting too nerdy will like this blend. Cheers!
Score: 3.25/5⭐
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Legend
$50 or less $
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