As a passionate whisky enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for hidden gems that embody the artistry and dedication of skilled distillers. Today, I am thrilled to share my experience with Hatozaki Small Batch whisky, a Japanese whisky that exemplifies the country’s rich history of whisky production.
Hatozaki Small Batch Review: Table of Contents
Discovering the Kaikyo Distillery
Hatozaki Small Batch is crafted at the Kaikyo Distillery, a relatively new player in the Japanese whisky scene. Established in 2017, the distillery shares its space with the renowned Akashi Sake Brewery, building upon centuries-old brewing traditions. This fusion of heritage and innovation sets the stage for Hatozaki’s unique character.
Under the guidance of master distiller and blender Kimio Yonezawa, the fourth-generation head of the company, Kaikyo Distillery has quickly made a name for itself. Yonezawa’s vision and dedication to craftsmanship are evident in every drop of Hatozaki Small Batch.
The Art of Small Batch Production
What sets Hatozaki Small Batch apart is its meticulous production process. This pure malt whisky is composed of 100% malted barley, aged for 5 to 6 years in a combination of:
- Bourbon casks
- Sherry casks
- Mizunara (Japanese oak) casks
The use of these distinctive casks imparts unique flavours, such as lemon zest and a subtle oakiness, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The master blenders at Kaikyo Distillery artfully combine these aged whiskies in small batches of less than 20 casks each. This two-fold blending process allows for the complexity and balance so prized in Japanese whiskies.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
Appearance: Hatozaki Small Batch pours a light gold colour, reminiscent of a ray of sunshine. Its delicate appearance belies the depth of flavours that await.
Nose: The nose is a delightful dance of citrus and orchard fruits, with notes of lemon zest, melon, and a whisper of oakiness. A subtle sweetness, reminiscent of honey, weaves through the aroma.
Palate: On the palate, Hatozaki Small Batch is smooth and light-bodied, with a fruity character taking centre stage. Lemon, apricot, and a touch of caramel mingle harmoniously. The influence of the Mizunara casks adds a layer of complexity, with hints of cinnamon and delicate spiciness.
Finish: The finish is medium in length, leaving a pleasant warmth and a lingering sweetness. A subtle salinity, reminiscent of the sea breeze near the distillery, adds an intriguing dimension to the whisky’s character.
| Aspect | Notes |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light gold |
| Nose | Lemon zest, melon, honey, subtle oak |
| Palate | Smooth, light-bodied, lemon, apricot, caramel, cinnamon, delicate spice |
| Finish | Medium length, pleasant warmth, lingering sweetness, subtle salinity |
Serving Suggestions & Comparisons
Hatozaki Small Batch is a versatile whisky that can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Neat: Sip it slowly to fully appreciate its nuanced flavours.
- On the Rocks: A large ice cube can open up new dimensions in the whisky’s profile.
- Highball: The citrusy notes make it perfect for a refreshing highball with soda water.
- Cocktails: Its smooth character lends itself well to cocktails like a Japanese Old Fashioned.
Compared to other Japanese whiskies, Hatozaki Small Batch offers a unique balance of lightness and complexity. It is more approachable than some heavily peated expressions from Yoichi or Hakushu while delivering more depth than entry-level blends like Nikka Days.
Value and Verdict
Priced around $60 per 750ml bottle, Hatozaki Small Batch provides excellent value for its quality. It serves as a gateway to the world of premium Japanese whiskies, offering an experience that both novices and connoisseurs can appreciate.
In conclusion, Hatozaki Small Batch is a testament to the artistry and innovation of Japanese whisky-making. Its delicate balance of flavours, smoothness, and signature Mizunara influence make it a must-try for any whisky enthusiast. Whether you’re new to Japanese whiskies or a seasoned aficionado, Hatozaki Small Batch promises a delightful journey through the essence of Japanese craftsmanship with this new brand aged in Mizunara casks made from Japanese white oak sourced from the Hokkaido and Tohuku forests. For a true taste of Japan, be sure to add Hatozaki Pure Malt Small Batch Whisky to your collection.
So raise a glass, savour each sip, and let Hatozaki Finest Small Batch transport you to the shores of Akashi, where tradition meets innovation in every drop.
FAQs
Is Hatozaki Small Batch worth the price?
Absolutely! At around $60, it offers exceptional quality and serves as an excellent introduction to premium Japanese whiskies.
How does Hatozaki Small Batch compare to other Japanese whiskies?
Hatozaki Small Batch strikes a balance between the lightness of entry-level blends and the complexity of heavily peated expressions. It is more approachable than some Yoichi or Hakushu whiskies while offering more depth than Nikka Days.
What is the best way to enjoy Hatozaki Small Batch?
Hatozaki Small Batch is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, as a highball with soda water, or in cocktails like a Japanese Old Fashioned. Experiment to find your preferred serving style!
For more reviews and explorations of the world of Japanese whiskies, check out The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Whisky here at Best Whiskey Guide.
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