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Whisky Review Round Up: Shinobu Japanese Whisky

We review two Japanese whiskies from the Shinobu brand, both of which are finished in Mizunara oak casks.

OVERALL RATING

7
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Tasting Notes

About:

86 proof; 50% malt and 50% grain; no age statement; $53 86 proof; no age statement; 100% malted barley; $75
Appearance:
A very pale gold that turns even lighter in the glass. Tawny
Nose:
The smell is briney like hijiki or fermented sea vegetables. There’s a bit of burn with some peat. Smells like a roasted whole grain with a bit of kelp.
Palate:
Upon tasting Shinobu Per Blended it was a it simple in flavor. It was sour and malty with a salty aftertaste. Final Thoughts: I don’t think I’ve ever tasted a whisky that was salty with hints of the sea like this one. It didn’t taste like a complex whisky but a very unique one. The favors remind me of a simple scotch that you’re sipping at waters edge. Score: 3.5/5 Tasting Notes: Shinobu Pure Malt Whisky Vital Stats: 86 proof; no age statement; 100% malted barley; $75 Appearance: Tawny Nose: Smells like a roasted whole grain with a bit of kelp. Palate: There are hints of salt, citrus and cinnamon. Final Thoughts: It’s a smooth sipping whiskey with a balanced palate and a little oaky burn. I would definitely recommend this one over the Shinobu Pure Blended but the flavors are more like your typical scotch or whisky. Score: 4/5
Finish:
Comments:

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Melissa Jones

Melissa D. Jones is a traveler, blogger, photographer, storyteller, foodie, whiskey enthusiast, and creative entrepreneur. Her thirst for adventure and new experiences has led her to photograph all 50 states and 47 countries, a journey she chronicled in her travel book. When she's not exploring the globe, Melissa resides in Portland, Oregon, where she enjoys attending events, savoring whiskey, and hiking. She has sampled over 100 different whiskies, both locally and internationally.

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