| Brand | Akkeshi |
| Region | Akkeshi, Japan |
| Spirits Type | Whiskey |
| Spirits Style | Blended |
| ABV | 48% |
Product details
Akkeshi Distillery, established in 2016 on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, has rapidly gained acclaim for its dedication to crafting exceptional whiskies that embody the region's unique terroir. Drawing inspiration from traditional Scottish methods, Akkeshi utilizes copper pot stills imported from Scotland and incorporates locally sourced peat, resulting in whiskies that echo the character of Islay malts while maintaining a distinct Japanese identity. The distillery's location in Akkeshi offers a cool, moist climate with frequent sea fog from the Bekan-Beushi wetlands, providing ideal conditions for whisky maturation.
The 'Shosetsu – The Greeting of Snow' Blended Whisky is the 13th release in Akkeshi's '24 Sekki' series, which celebrates the traditional Japanese micro-seasons. 'Shosetsu' refers to the period from November 22 to December 6, symbolizing the subtle transition into winter. This expression is a meticulous blend of Akkeshi's single malt and sourced grain whiskies, some of which are lightly peated. Matured for a minimum of three years in a variety of casks—including Hokkaido Mizunara oak, ex-bourbon, sherry, and red wine barrels—the whisky offers a citrus-forward nose with notes of candied lemons, pickled ume, and sweet grains. The palate reveals flavors of orange peel and smoky cedar, leading to a complex finish highlighting bitter lemon peel and vanilla cream. Bottled at 48% ABV and non-chill filtered, this whisky pairs excellently with dishes such as grilled seafood, roasted poultry, or creamy cheeses, enhancing the dining experience with its depth and complexity.
