Glenfiddich recently introduced the Grand Yozakura, the first single malt Scotch whisky to be finished in rare Japanese Awamori casks.
A statement from the whisky maker notes that this expression is a limited-edition fusion that celebrates some of the finest flavors from Scotland and Japan.
Grand Yozakura is a 29-Year-Old Scotch whisky matured at the Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown then finished in oak casks that previously matured the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan … Awamori.
The distiller explained that Awamori is made using long-grain Indica rice and is traditionally stored in clay pots, with only a small proportion matured in oak casks. This makes the liquid extremely rare.
The technique to make the spirit has remained relatively unchanged for more than 500 years.
Grand Yozakura is part of Glennfiddich’s premium Grand Series, a collection of single malts characterized by innovative and experimental cask finishing.
The collection includes Glenfiddich Gran Reserva (Aged 21 Years), Glenfiddich Grand Cru (Aged 23 Years), and Glenfiddich Grande Couronne (Aged 26 Years).
“We are always looking to experiment with new finishes, so when the chance arose to acquire rare Awamori casks, we saw an opportunity to push the boundaries and experiment with this highly unusual spirit,” said Brian Kinsman, malt master for Glenfiddich. “This is the first time that single malt Scotch whisky has been finished in these rare casks. We always learn something new when we lead with innovation, so taking a risk is worth it, and in the case of Awamori, we trialed a very small number of casks at a younger age.”
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Lorne Cousin, U.S. national ambassador for Glenfiddich, said that Awamori is the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan, and its diverse range of flavors run deep, like Scotch whisky. “Finishing in Awamori casks for the last six months, this process elevates the liquid with rich oak notes complimenting Glenfiddich’s signature smooth taste.”
Grand Yozakura is the first in the Grand Series of expressions that are finished in rare casks from around the world, honoring a cultural celebration from that country.
The statement explained that Glenfiddich’s Grand Yozakura expression celebrates Hanami, the cherry blossom festival when Japan appreciates the temporal beauty of nature through the sakura (cherry blossoms).
Grand Yozakura’s bespoke bottle and stopper feature Hanko stamp engraving, a label tear design with Hanko stamp embossing, and a decorated fabric capsule with a traditional poem on sakura.
The bottle is placed in a rotating Grand Range box with cherry blossom florals, bringing Hanami to life with a signature illustration created by Japanese artist June, who creates visions incorporating Japanese culture and landscapes.
Grand Yozakura clocks in at 45.1% ABV and is available in limited quantities at select retail in the U.S. with a suggested retail price of $1,999. Enthusiasts have the opportunity to secure an option to purchase one of the limited-edition bottles in select markets through a ballot process available at the web site www.glenfiddich.com. The ballot closes on April 20th.
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