Ohishi 10 Year Old Ex-Brandy Cask Whisky, Japan

The Ohishi 10 Year Old Ex-Brandy Cask Whisky is a refined expression of Japanese rice whisky, beautifully matured for a decade in brandy casks that impart richness, depth, and elegance. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this whisky seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, delivering a dram that is both distinctly Japanese and universally captivating.

Product Details:

• Type: Single Grain Rice Whisky
• Aging: 10 years in ex-brandy casks
• Proof: 84
• Distillery: Ohishi Shuzo, Mizukami-mura, Kumamoto Prefecture
• Master Distiller: Kazunori Oishi

Sensory Description:

The whisky pours a rich amber with golden undertones, signaling the complexity nurtured over a decade. Aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, caramel, and vanilla rise gracefully, framed by warm spice and a delicate jasmine floral note. On the palate, flavors of baked apple, poached pear, and toffee mingle with roasted nuts and oak, all enveloped in a creamy texture. Earthy subtleties add depth, while the finish lingers long with dark chocolate, honey, and a gentle spiced warmth.

Awards & Accolades:

• Grand Gold – 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Distiller's Background:

Founded in 1872, Ohishi Shuzo sits in the Kumamoto mountains near Mizukami-mura, a village celebrated for the pristine waters of the Kuma River. For six generations, the Oishi family has specialized in rice-based spirits, evolving from shochu production to internationally acclaimed whisky. Today, Master Distiller Kazunori Oishi continues this legacy, using estate-grown rice varieties, including Hino hikari and Yamada Nishiki, sustainably farmed with koi fish to control weeds in the paddies. The distillery’s innovative practices, from stainless steel pot stills to experimental aging in brandy, sherry, port, and even sakura casks, highlight their dedication to both tradition and exploration.

Serving Suggestions:

Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its nuanced complexity, or with a splash of water to unlock layered aromas of fruit and spice. It also shines on the rocks, where the slow dilution reveals a silkier mouthfeel and a heightened sweetness. Pair it with roasted nuts, aged cheeses, or dark chocolate for an elevated tasting experience.

The Ohishi 10-Year-Old Ex-Brandy Cask Whisky is an exquisite balance of fruit, spice, and creamy texture, an eloquent expression of Japanese whisky artistry that rewards patience with elegance in every sip.