Yamato Small Batch Japanese Whisky

Yamato was created by Aiko Importers after learning of excess barrels of Japanese Whisky at one of the largest distilleries in the Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan, located southwest of Tokyo on the main island of Honshu. Aiko Importers was able to acquire the whisky, and under Japanese authority, develop Yamato, as an exclusive, small batch brand.

The Japanese characters on the label translate to the words; "great harmony"....the perfect description for the rich whisky. According to the distillery, the Yamato is a blend of malted Scotch whisky and a distillate made from select grain grown in the Yamanashi Prefecture.

The Kofu Basin, a land-locked, fertile central valley, is surrounded by many of the highest mountains in Japan including the world renowned Mt. Fuji. The mini-climate created by these geographical features and fertile soil slows the maturation of the grains imparting a unique richness of flavor. The cold winters and firey summers intensify the aging process of the whisky, imparting flavor and boldness to the blend. To maintain the natural character of the whisky, it is not chill filtered. Yamato is a blend of 3 to 8 year whisky aged in Mizunara Oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Distinct licorice - bourbon notes with near perfect toasted honeycomb and toffee aromas.

Taste: Outstanding richness and sheen with a plump barley-oak sweetness. Light anise and molasses add a pleasurable dimension. Vanilla, nougat and hazelnuts.

Finish: Round Vanilla, soft oak, toffee, mid-palate dryness