Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara Oak Cask Finish is a harmonious blend of Scottish whisky heritage and Japanese craftsmanship. This review delves into the whisky’s luxurious profile, from its four-stage ageing process to the final maturation in coveted Mizunara oak, offering insights into its rich flavours, storied heritage, and global appeal.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
An Overview of Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara
Dewar’s 21 Year Old Mizunara Oak Cask Finish whisky is a unique and sophisticated blend that marries the rich heritage of Scottish whisky-making with the distinctive influence of Japanese Mizunara oak. This whisky is part of Dewar’s esteemed Double Double series, known for its meticulous 4-stage ageing process, which includes a final finish in rare Mizunara oak casks. The Mizunara oak is celebrated for its complex character, adding unique flavour profiles to the whisky due to its long maturation period of up to 200 years before being crafted into casks.
- Style: Blended Scotch Whisky
- Age: 21 Years
- ABV: 46%
- Key Flavours: Vanilla, Creamy, Coconut, Woody
- Production: Four-Stage Ageing Process, Finished in Mizunara Oak Casks
- Pricing: Approximately £112 (based on the $149.99 price in USD) Not available for more options go Here.
For a deeper dive into the Double Double 21 Year Old Mizunara, check out the in-depth review on Whiskey Reviewer.
The Whiskies Inside of Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara
Dewar’s Double Double 21 Year Old Mizunara is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. It combines the traditional techniques of Scotch whisky production with the unique qualities of Mizunara oak, known for its scarcity and the intricate flavours it imparts. This blend reflects a harmonious balance of succulence, purity, and smoothness, with tasting notes that include vanilla, creamy textures, and a hint of coconut and woodiness.
Discover more about this exquisite blend on Dewar’s official page.
Reviewing Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara
Colour
The whisky presents a rich, golden hue, indicative of its extended ageing and the influence of the Mizunara oak.
Nose
On the nose, Dewar’s 21 Year Old Mizunara offers a complex bouquet of creamy vanilla and coconut, underscored by a subtle woodiness, which speaks to the unique finishing process in Mizunara oak casks.
Palate
The palate is greeted with a smooth and velvety texture, carrying flavours of vanilla and coconut, alongside a rich creaminess that envelops the taste buds, offering a deep and satisfying complexity.
Finish
The finish is long and clean, with a lingering sweetness and a delicate balance that showcases the craftsmanship behind this exquisite blend.
Balance & Complexity
This whisky demonstrates exceptional balance and complexity, attributed to the innovative four-stage ageing process and the final finish in Mizunara oak casks. The interplay of Scottish tradition and Japanese craftsmanship yields a whisky of unparalleled depth and character.
Brand Heritage & Storytelling
Dewar’s, with its long-standing history and dedication to quality, has once again pushed the boundaries with the Double Double 21 Year Old Mizunara. The choice to finish this blend in Mizunara oak is a nod to the global whisky community and a celebration of the craftsmanship shared by Scottish and Japanese distillers. This release not only showcases Dewar’s innovative spirit but also pays homage to the wood’s rich Japanese heritage, making it a rare and sought-after treasure among whisky enthusiasts.
The History of The Distillery
Founded in 1846 by John Dewar, Dewar’s has grown from a small wine and spirits merchant shop in Scotland into one of the world’s most recognized Scotch whisky brands. The brand is known for its pioneering double ageing process and the commitment to quality and innovation, as demonstrated in the Double Double series and the exceptional 21 Year Old Mizunara finish.
“If You Like…, You’ll Love…”
If you appreciate the nuanced complexity of aged Scotch whiskies or the refined elegance of Japanese whiskies finished in Mizunara oak, Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara Oak Cask Finish will undoubtedly captivate your senses. It’s a splendid blend that bridges two great whisky traditions, offering a unique tasting experience that is both familiar and novel. Fans of Hatozaki Pure Malt Whisky may find a similar allure in the Dewar’s Mizunara finish due to its intricate malt profile and wood influence.
Beyond Sipping: Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara
Cocktails
While it shines on its own, Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara can also elevate whisky-based cocktails, adding depth and a unique flavour profile that complements both classic and innovative recipes. For those who enjoy a good highball, this whisky could be an excellent choice to experiment with, especially when considering the best Japanese whiskies for highballs in 2024.
Food Pairings
This whisky’s creamy vanilla and coconut notes make it a versatile companion to various cuisines. Here are some ideas to inspire your pairings:
- Traditional Scottish: Think rich, savoury dishes like smoked salmon, Cullen skink (a creamy fish soup), or even haggis with a creamy whisky sauce.
- Japanese: Sushi, tempura, or delicately flavoured grilled fish would highlight the whisky’s smoothness and subtle sweetness.
- Desserts: The vanilla notes complement desserts like crème brûlée, panna cotta, or even a classic vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of whisky.
Tip: A few drops of water can open up the aromas and flavours of the whisky, potentially revealing even more exciting pairings.
Whisky lovers who enjoy exploring food pairings might be interested in learning more about how to keep whisky in the freezer to maintain its character for such occasions.
Comparative Review
Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara Oak Cask Finish distinguishes itself within the premium whisky landscape thanks to its innovative use of Mizunara oak and the meticulous four-stage ageing process. While other high-end blended Scotch whiskies often rely on traditional sherry or ex-bourbon cask finishes, the Mizunara influence sets this Dewar’s expression apart. For example, consider the Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Gran Reserva, finished in rum casks. It offers richness and fruity notes but lacks the subtle spice and creamy smoothness imparted by the Mizunara oak in the Dewar’s.
The Dewar’s blend showcases a unique interplay of Scottish craftsmanship and Japanese refinement. This makes it a must-try for whisky aficionados seeking something distinctively different yet undeniably delicious. Those who enjoy the Yamazaki Mizunara releases will likely find the Dewars 21 Year Old a fascinating comparison, demonstrating how this unique oak influences a blended Scotch base.
The Verdict: Tradition meets innovation triumph.
Overall Rating: 9/10 Stars
The Dewars 21 Year Old Mizunara Oak Cask Finish earns a stellar rating for its innovative blend of Scottish and Japanese whisky traditions, exceptional smoothness, and the unique, complex flavours imparted by the Mizunara oak. It’s a testament to Dewar’s heritage of innovation and quality, making it a highly recommended addition to any whisky collection.
The choice to finish this whisky in Mizunara oak casks is what sets it apart, offering whisky lovers a taste of something truly special and rare. This blend is not just a drink; it’s an experience that celebrates the art of whisky-making across cultures. For those interested in further exploring the enchanting world of Mizunara oak finishes, the Hakushu 25 Year Old provides another exquisite example of this craft.
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