The Kanosuke Distillery in Kagoshima, Japan, proudly unveils its latest masterpiece, the “Artist Edition #003” This limited-edition release is the third installment in the acclaimed Artist Series, celebrating the rich diversity of Kagoshima and its cultural heritage. With only 5,844 bottles available worldwide, this light peated single malt whisky offers a truly unique tasting experience, enhanced by the artistry of Yukihito Kanai.
A Symphony of Flavors and Aromas
The Artist Edition #003 is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative spirit of Kanosuke Distillery. The whisky is predominantly matured in a variety of casks, including bourbon, re-charred, sherry, and red wine, before being finished in Kokuto Shochu casks. This complex maturation process imbues the whisky with a distinctive flavor profile that reflects the essence of Kagoshima.
- Color: Orange-amber
- Nose: Passion fruit, banana, caramel, black tea
- Taste: Brown sugar, honey, nikki (cinnamon-like spice), sweet summer fruits, ginger
- Finish: Rich brown sugar sweetness with a hint of smoke
The Artistic Inspiration
The label of the Artist Edition #003 is a visual masterpiece created by Yukihito Kanai, a renowned second-generation dyer from “Kanai Kougei.” Kanai’s artwork draws inspiration from his visit to the Kanosuke Distillery and the scenic beauty of the East China Sea. The label features a depiction of Fukiage Beach, capturing the spirit and natural splendor of Amami Oshima Island.
Embracing the Five Elements Philosophy
Kanosuke’s Artist Series pays homage to the ancient Japanese philosophy of the Five Elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each edition in the series collaborates with a different artist to create a label that embodies one of these elements. The Artist Edition #003 focuses on the element of “earth,” symbolizing the connection between the distillery and its natural surroundings.
A Unique Maturation Process
What sets the Artist Edition #003 apart is its maturation process. The whisky is aged in a warehouse situated on a small hill on the northern side of the Kanosuke Distillery, where it benefits from the sea breeze. The use of both peated and non-peated malt, finished in ex-Amami Kokuto Shochu casks, creates a rich and layered flavor profile that is unparalleled in the world of single malt whisky.
Availability
The Kanosuke Artist Edition #003, bottled at 50% ABV, will be available for purchase starting June 18th at select liquor stores across Japan. Given its limited release, whisky enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to secure their bottles quickly.
Explore More About Kanosuke Distillery
For those interested in the storied history and innovative techniques of Kanosuke Distillery, we invite you to visit their official website. There, you can delve deeper into the distillery’s heritage, explore other unique expressions, and learn about the artistry behind their exceptional whiskies.
