Akkeshi Distillery Daikan – The Peak of Winter Blended Whisky

Lightly peated blended malt and grain whisky produced by Akkeshi Distillery in Akkeshi, Japan • 6^th release from 24 Sekki series • Copper pot distilled • Aged minimum 3 years • Akkeshi single malt aged in a combination of ex-bourbon, sherry, red wine, and local Mizunara oak casks • Sourced grain whisky from an undisclosed distillery aged in ex-bourbon casks by Akkeshi • Inviting aromas of orange tea, brown sugar, lemon, and strawberry precede a palate that echoes the nose with extra layers of citrus acidity and sweetness; the finish is classic Akkeshi, highlighting sea salt, white pepper, and cocoa • Bottled in 2022; limited US release of only 492 bottles • 48% ABV

The 24 Japanese Sekki are days that divide the solar year into 24 equal micro seasons. Daikan, roughly translated as “the peak of winter,” begins around January 20^th, and is considered Japan’s coldest season. The label design, inspired by the heavy fog of Akkeshi Bay, conveys this brooding chill, but worry not—the rich grain whisky and peated mizunara cask influence make for a sturdy dram to fortify oneself through the coldest days of winter.