Yu Courage Japanese Whisky Aged in Mizunara Cask
Yu Courage Japanese Whisky Aged in Mizunara Cask is an 80-proof (40% ABV), 750mL Japanese whisky — a blend of malt and grain whiskies matured in rare Mizunara Japanese oak. Named for Yu, the Bushido virtue of courage, it layers delicate florals, honey, orange peel, and white chocolate over Mizunara's signature incense-like spice. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Blend: malt and grain whiskies
- Cask: aged in Mizunara Japanese oak
- Theme: Yu — courage, the Bushido samurai code
- Origin: Japan
Courage in a Mizunara Cask
In Bushido, the unwritten samurai code, Yu — courage — is the discerning bravery that fuses valor, fortitude, awareness, and perceptiveness. Mizunara is the cask behind it: notoriously hard to work, prone to leaking, and irreplaceable for the sandalwood-and-incense character it gives. Explore more Japanese whisky or browse everything from Yu at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Delicate florals, honeyed orange peel, whisper-soft white chocolate (retailer notes).
Palate: Subtly layered — honey, citrus, soft spice, light and silky.
Finish: Clean and herbal-touching, mellow oak, lingering.
How to Enjoy
Neat first — the Mizunara incense note is worth catching undiluted; a splash of water can mute it. Then try it on a large cube or in a highball for a lighter read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Yu" mean?
Courage — one of the virtues of Bushido, the samurai code of conduct.
What is Mizunara oak?
Rare Japanese oak prized for sandalwood and incense-like notes; difficult to work but unmatched in character.
Is it a single malt?
No — a blend of malt and grain whiskies, all aged in Mizunara casks.
What proof is it?
80 proof (40% ABV).
A Bushido-inspired pour in Japan's rarest oak — find Yu Courage Japanese Whisky at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.