Shibui Pure Malt Whisky

Shibui Pure Malt Whisky is a 43% ABV (86-proof) 100%-malt world whisky from Niigata, Japan — a marriage of Niigata Japanese malt whisky and Lowland Scotch single malts, matured in American ex-bourbon barrels and European Oloroso sherry casks, finished in rare Japanese mizunara oak. Double copper pot distilled, non-chill filtered, natural color. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.

• ABV/Proof: 43% ABV / 86 proof
• Size: 750mL
• Aging: No age statement — bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, mizunara finish
• Origin: Niigata, Japan (Niigata Range; Japanese malt whisky married with Lowland Scotch malts; rested on the Sea of Japan coast)
• Production: 100% malted barley; double copper pot still; non-chill filtered; natural color

Two Countries, One Malt

"Pure malt" is Shibui's word for what is, in substance, a blended malt — 100% malted barley whisky drawn from Japan and Scotland, then given the triple-oak treatment that defines the Niigata Range: ex-bourbon barrels for vanilla and structure, Oloroso sherry for dried fruit and depth, and mizunara for that unmistakable Japanese-oak spice. The result is richer and darker than the wheat-driven Grain Select — walnut, coffee, and chocolate from the brand's own notes, with Whisky Advocate finding crushed nuts, coriander seed, mizunara spiciness, salted peanuts, caramel, bitter orange, and sherry fruit. If the Grain Select is the aperitif of the Shibui range, Pure Malt is the after-dinner pour — and a 92-point IWSC medalist worth exploring in Japanese whisky.

Tasting Notes

The brand describes walnut, coffee, and chocolate. Whisky Advocate's review excerpt: a dry, spicy nose of crushed nuts, coriander seed, mizunara spice, and salted peanuts; a palate of caramel, bitter orange, boiled fondant, sherry fruitiness, mango, malt, pepper, and clove, with spice enduring through the finish. InsideHook noted roasted coffee beans, cocoa, crème brûlée, and fruit.

How to Enjoy

Neat in a tulip glass to catch the nutty, sherry-driven aromatics. A teaspoon of water opens the chocolate and spice; it also makes a superb old fashioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pure Malt a single malt?
No — it is a blended malt (a "world whisky") combining Japanese and Scotch malt whiskies.

What casks are used?
American ex-bourbon barrels and European Oloroso sherry casks, with a final finish in Japanese mizunara oak.

Has it won awards?
92 points at the 2021 International Wine & Spirit Competition, per the brand.

How is it different from Grain Select?
Grain Select is wheat-dominant and light; Pure Malt is 100% malted barley — richer, nuttier, and built for slow sipping.

Walnut, coffee, chocolate, mizunara spice — experience Shibui Pure Malt Whisky; order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.