Akkeshi Blended Whisky Shoman

The nose is rich and complex, opening with aromas of pineapple and other exotic yellow fruits. These fruity notes evolve into peaty nuances, reminiscent of incense, charcoal and grilled sausages. Gourmet touches of bacon, pancakes soaked in maple syrup and honey add depth, while muscat grape notes add juicy freshness. The palate is dynamic and evolving. Its roundness is marked by herbaceous and smoky flavors, typical of Akkeshi, as well as notes of honey, mango jam and lemon zest. The complexity of the flavors develops gradually, offering a rich and varied taste experience. The finish is fresh and invigorating, with pleasant citrus acidity and a hint of white pepper that lingers on the palate. It leaves an impression of clarity and precision, with a touch of sophistication.

Akkeshi Shoman features a strong rum cask influence, a first for this distillery, combined with a variety of bourbon, sherry, wine and mizunara oak casks. This diverse composition gives the whisky remarkable depth and complexity. Part of the “24 seasons” series, this blend is the eleventh edition, entitled “Shoman”, meaning “Nature prospers”. It captures the May season, when plants and animals flourish thanks to the beneficial rains. During this period, the cherry blossoms in Nenohi Park turn from white to pale pink, symbolizing nature's growing vitality.

The Akkeshi distillery uses a still made by Forsyth in Scotland, similar to the one used on Islay. The water used for distillation passes through a layer of peat, enriching the whisky with distinctive peaty nuances. The whisky is aged in a cool, damp climate, influenced by sea breezes, with warehouses located close to Akkeshi Bay. Water comes from the Homakai River, upstream from the Opporo River, a wetland rich in biodiversity, essential to the quality of Akkeshi whisky.

Akkeshi Distillery's “24 Seasons” series is inspired by the 24 solar terms of the traditional Japanese calendar, each capturing a unique phase of the year. The labels in this series represent this seasonal progression, allowing whisky lovers to enjoy a product that evolves with the Japanese seasons.