(Pre Order) Kanosuke 6 Year old 2026 Single Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky

Kanosuke 2019/2026 6 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky is an exceptional limited-edition release from one of Japan's most exciting modern distilleries, distilled in September 2019 and bottled in March 2026 after six years of maturation. Released exclusively to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Kirsch Import, this remarkable whisky was matured in a single Sherry Butt, Cask #19357, developing an intensely rich and beautifully layered character. Bottled at a powerful natural cask strength of 62% ABV, with an extremely limited outturn of just 569 bottles worldwide, this expression showcases the remarkable maturity and complexity achievable from Kanosuke's distinctive coastal spirit. Rich dark fruits, creamy vanilla, golden honey and warming oak spice combine with a subtle maritime influence, creating a beautifully concentrated and sophisticated Japanese single malt. A particularly compelling release for enthusiasts seeking exceptional single cask Japanese whisky from a new generation of distilleries.

Distillery: Kanosuke Distillery
Bottler: Official Distillery Bottling
Edition: 50th Anniversary Kirsch Import
Vintage: 2019
Age: 6 Years Old
ABV: 62%
Cask Type: Sherry Butt
Cask Number: 19357
Outturn: 569 Bottles

Established in 2017 on the western coast of Kagoshima Prefecture, Kanosuke Distillery has rapidly become one of the most highly regarded names in contemporary Japanese whisky. Founded by the Komasa family, whose distilling heritage dates back to 1883 through generations of traditional shochu production, Kanosuke combines Japanese craftsmanship with a distinctive approach to whisky maturation. The distillery overlooks the East China Sea and benefits from a coastal climate that influences the interaction between spirit and oak throughout maturation. Its three copper pot stills, each with a different neck shape and configuration, allow the distillery to produce a diverse range of spirit styles, from delicate and fruit-driven to rich and full-bodied. This exceptional 2019 single cask was selected to commemorate Kirsch Import's 50th anniversary, representing a collaboration between one of Japan's most promising modern whisky producers and an established European whisky importer. Six years in a carefully selected Sherry Butt have developed impressive richness and concentration, combining Kanosuke's naturally expressive malt character with layers of dark fruit, roasted nuts, caramel and warming spice. The result is a remarkably mature and sophisticated expression that demonstrates the considerable potential of Japanese single malt whisky.

Tasting Notes:

The aroma is wonderfully rich and expressive, opening with ripe dark fruits and sweet raisins, accompanied by delicate golden honey and creamy vanilla. Subtle cocoa, dried berries and gentle oak spice gradually emerge, creating an opulent bouquet with considerable depth and complexity. The palate is powerful and full-bodied, revealing layers of rich malt sweetness, buttery caramel and concentrated dried fruits, beautifully complemented by roasted nuts and warming oak spice. The influence of the Sherry Butt provides remarkable richness and structure, while the whisky's natural intensity is balanced by its smooth, rounded malt character. As the flavours develop, hints of dark chocolate and seasoned oak introduce further complexity, with a subtle coastal salinity adding an intriguing contrast to the sweeter elements. The finish is exceptionally long, warming and sophisticated, with lingering cocoa, dark chocolate and gentle oak spice gradually giving way to a delicate salty note. A wonderfully expressive single cask that combines the richness of sherry maturation with the distinctive character of coastal Japanese whisky.