Hakushu Spanish Oak 2021 Edition

Hakushu Spanish Oak 2021 Edition is a limited release single malt whisky from Suntory, matured in Spanish oak casks. It features flavors of cacao, manuka honey, dark chocolate, and a soft sweetness, making it a unique choice for whisky enthusiasts.

Product Overview

• Name: Hakushu Spanish Oak 2021 Edition
• Type: Single Malt Whisky
• Distillery: Hakushu, part of Suntory
• Release: Limited edition, part of the Tsukuriwake selection
• Maturation: Ex-Sherry Spanish Oak barrels

Tasting Notes

• Nose:

  • Excellent sherry cask influence
  • Notes of polished oak, dried dark fruits, dark chocolate, and dark coffee

• Palate:

  • Soft sweetness with hints of dark chocolate bitterness
  • Flavors of milk chocolate ganache, sweet caramel, and toffee fudge
  • Earthy undertones with oak and leather

• Finish:

  • Balanced and lingering
  • Questions about the age and composition of the whisky remain, as it may contain older whiskies

• Where to Buy:

  • Available at various online retailers like Barrel Craft Whiskey, including Mizunara: The Shop and Whiskybase

Additional Information

• Bottle Size: 700 ml
• Age Statement: NAS (No Age Statement)
• Release Date: 2021

How does the 2021 edition compare to other Hakushu releases

The Hakushu Spanish Oak 2021 Edition offers a distinctive profile compared to other releases from the Hakushu distillery. Here are some key comparisons:

Flavor Profile

• Spanish Oak 2021 Edition: This release is characterized by its maturation in Spanish oak casks, which adds a unique depth with rich fruitiness and herbal notes. The influence of the oak imparts a spiciness that sets it apart.
• Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve: Typically lighter and more floral, this expression focuses on fresh green apple and herbal notes, showcasing the distillery’s signature style without the oak complexity found in the Spanish Oak edition.
• Hakushu 12 Year Old: This whisky presents a balance of fruitiness and a subtle smoke, with a more straightforward profile compared to the Spanish Oak. It’s known for its crispness and refreshing qualities.

Complexity

• Spanish Oak 2021 Edition: Offers a more complex flavor profile with layers of sweetness and spice, making it intriguing for those who appreciate nuanced whiskies.
• Other Releases: While the Distiller’s Reserve and 12 Year Old have their complexities, they tend to focus more on the distillery’s core characteristics rather than the oak influence.

Availability and Rarity

• Spanish Oak 2021 Edition: Being a limited release, it may be harder to find and can be sought after by collectors.
• Regular Releases (like the 12 Year Old): More widely available and consistent in supply.

Overall Experience

• Spanish Oak 2021 Edition: Appeals to those looking for something unique and innovative, while other releases are great for appreciating the classic Hakushu style.