A Blended Japanese Whisky matured in ex-bourbon American Oak casks, ex-sherry Spanish oak casks and Japanese Mizunara oak casks.
A bit about
The Hatozaki Finest Blended Whisky is produced by Kakyo Distillery in Akashi City - Hyogo Prefecture.
The name comes from the Hatozaki Lighthouse, which is close to the distillery, the oldest stone lighthouse in Japan, guiding sailors to the port of Akashi since 1620.
It has 40% ABV, is non-chill filtered and has a natural, very light colour. The whiskies used are matured for up to 12 years.
The Hatozaki Finest Blended won Silver at the International Spirits Challenge in 2024 and gold at the London Craft Spirits Awards in 2023.
Time to try it
Hatozaki - Finest Blended Whisky
Nose: Light, with citrus, banana, cereal (grains) and a hint of olive oil
Taste: Sweet in the beginning, then slightly oily on the palate and with a tiny amount of smokiness. Hints of lime zest and almonds.
Finish: Medium, warm with more grains and oiliness
Pros and Cons
It's enjoyable served neat, way more pleasant with an ice cube or two and great in a highball.
Compared to any of Yamazaki's Single Malts, it lacks depth and flavour (and it is also an unfair comparison), but compared to other blended whiskies, I think it's enjoyable, especially if you're a fan of highball cocktails.
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In conclusion
Priced at around £35-40 on most UK websites, I think it's worth a try if you're curious about Japanese whisky, if you're a fan of blended whisky or if you generally prefer your whiskies lighter, floral and smooth.
After trying this one, I am highly curious about Hatozaki's Umeshu Cask Finish and the Small Batch Pure Malt.
If you want to give this dram a try you can find Hatozaki here.
As always, please drink responsibly.
If you like this little review please click on the little heart below and if you've tried this whisky, I would love to hear what you think of it, in the comments below.
I hope life is treating you well.
Take care.