Hatozaki Small Batch Japanese Whisky
Hatozaki Small Batch Japanese Whisky is a 46% ABV (92 proof) Japanese whisky from the Kaikyo Distillery in Akashi, Hyōgo — a 100% malt vatting aged 5–6 years in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and native Mizunara oak casks, bottled at a fuller strength with no chill filtration and no added color. A 750mL bottle of concentrated Akashi character. Order Japanese whisky online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 46% (92 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Style: 100% malt vatting (no grain whisky), no age statement
- Aging: 5–6 years in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and Mizunara oak
- Distillery: Kaikyo Distillery, Akashi, Japan — non-chill-filtered, no added coloring
Small Batch, Full Character
Where Hatozaki Finest is a light, highball-friendly blend, Small Batch is the distillery turned up a notch: all malt, higher proof, and casked in a three-way split of ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and Mizunara oak for five to six years. The Mizunara — Japan's famously porous and finicky native oak — brings sandalwood and incense spice that you won't find in Scotch at this price. Dried fruit and floral honey on the nose with a subtle wisp of smoke; ripe pear, toasted malt, and light vanilla on the palate; soft oak and peppery spice on the finish. Browse all Hatozaki whiskies, explore the wider Japanese whisky collection, or keep it in the family with 135º East gin from the same distillery.
Tasting Notes
Dried fruit, floral honey, and baking spice on the nose with a delicate hint of smoke. The palate shows ripe pear, toasted malt, and sandalwood over light vanilla, finishing with soft oak, peppery spice, and a whisper of incense.
How to Enjoy
Neat or with a splash of water to open the Mizunara spice. At 92 proof it also stands up to a single large cube for a slow evening pour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Batch a single malt?
The US label says "Small Batch Whisky" rather than single malt; the brand describes it as a 100% malt vatting aged 5–6 years.
How is it different from Hatozaki Finest?
Finest is a lighter 80-proof malt-and-grain blend; Small Batch is 92 proof, all malt, and aged longer in three cask types including Mizunara.
Has it won any awards?
A silver medal ("Highly Recommended") from the Beverage Testing Institute.
Step up to Akashi's bolder side — buy Hatozaki Small Batch Japanese Whisky online from Del Mesa Liquor, with pickup or delivery in San Diego, CA.