Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023
Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023 is the 2023 Limited Edition from the Kanosuke Distillery in Kagoshima, Japan — a 59% ABV (118 proof), 700mL natural cask strength single malt, bottled non-chill-filtered with no added coloring. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
Distilled in 2018–2019 from 100% malted barley — a blend of unpeated malt and 50 ppm peated malt — and double-distilled across Kanosuke's three Miyake copper pot stills, the 2023 Limited Edition aged an average of four to five years in ex-bourbon casks, re-charred American oak casks that held the family's Mellowed Kozuru rice shochu, and sherry casks. It won Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Tasting profile: cinnamon, pastry custard, banana and smoky incense on the nose; black tea, salted caramel and baking spice on the palate; a dry, salty-sweet smoke finish. Browse the Kanosuke brand collection, more Japanese whisky, and the full whiskey collection at Del Mesa Liquor.
Serving note: a cask-strength sipper — neat, or with a few drops of water to open the smoke and caramel.
What makes the 2023 Limited Edition different? It is bottled at natural cask strength (59% ABV) from unpeated and 50 ppm peated malt distilled in 2018–2019, versus the 48% ABV core bottling.
Has the 2023 Limited Edition won awards? Yes — Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
What is the ABV and size? 59% ABV (118 proof), 700mL, non-chill-filtered with no added coloring.