Saburomaru II High Priestess Single Malt Japanese Whisky

The Saburomaru II “High Priestess” Single Malt Japanese Whisky is a bold and distinctive Japanese single malt distilled in 2019 at the renowned Saburomaru Distillery in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. Bottled as part of the acclaimed “The High Priestess” release, this whisky highlights Saburomaru’s modern peated house style while showcasing the distillery’s dedication to innovation and traditional craftsmanship. Matured for over three years and bottled at a powerful natural strength, this limited release captures the smoky and spicy character that has made Saburomaru one of Japan’s most exciting emerging whisky distilleries.

Distillery: Saburomaru Distillery
Series: II The High Priestess
Style: Peated Single Malt Japanese Whisky
Age: 3 Years Old
Vintage: 2019
Bottled: 2022
ABV: 48%
Outturn: 6,000 Bottles

The “High Priestess” label forms part of Saburomaru’s tarot-inspired series, with each release drawing influence from symbolic tarot card themes. The series has become highly collectible among Japanese whisky enthusiasts, celebrated for its artistic presentation and limited production runs. Saburomaru Distillery itself is recognised for reviving heavily peated Japanese whisky production and for pioneering the use of the world’s first cast copper pot still, known as the “ZEMON” still.

Tasting Notes:
The nose is full and expressive, opening with waves of dried peat smoke, toasted bread and earthy malt layered alongside vibrant passion fruit and subtle citrus brightness. On the palate, the whisky develops remarkable complexity with rich smoky character, soft pear sweetness and persistent peat intertwining with warming spice and delicate herbal undertones. The finish is long and persistent, carrying notes of stewed fruit, lingering ash and earthy smoke that slowly fade into dry oak and refined peat embers, creating a bold yet balanced Japanese whisky experience.