Hatozaki Whisky today announces the launch of its newest expression, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve, as a permanent addition to the brand’s portfolio. This latest expression showcases a rare finishing technique, Umeshu plum liqueur casks – a method rarely seen in the whisky world and uniquely rooted in Japan.
Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve embodies Master Distiller Kimio Yonezawa’s vision of a delicate yet beautifully crafted “world whisky,” shaped by generations of Japanese craftsmanship.
A blend of hand-selected malt whiskies, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve is first aged in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry barrels, then finished for six months in superior Umeshu plum liqueur casks. Known in Japan as ume, Umeshu is a traditional liqueur made by steeping local green plums in alcohol. This additional maturation imparts delicate layers of zesty citrus, tea-like herbal notes, and a subtle plum sweetness, resulting in a complex flavour profile that sets this whisky apart.
Umeshu cask finishing is rarely seen in whisky production, highlighting Hatozaki’s innovative approach to blending whisky whilst rooting the product in Japanese culture and heritage.
“Finishing a whisky in Umeshu casks is rare in the whisky world, and I was eager to see how the Japanese plum liqueur’s flavours would transform the blend,” notes Master Distiller Kimio Yonezawa. “The umeshu influence adds an extra layer of depth and gentle sweetness that truly sets Triple Cask Reserve apart from more traditional whiskies.”
As a true “world whisky” Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve brings together global distilling influences, refined at the Kaikyō Distillery in Japan with techniques honed over generations. Yonezawa — a fourth-generation distiller — has spent decades mastering whisky craftsmanship and is committed to upholding the high standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA). The resulting spirit honours time-honored Japanese blending artistry while embracing a worldwide whisky heritage.
Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve emerges as an elegant yet approachable whisky, best sipped slowly and savored with friends and family. Its thoughtful creation and distinctive finishing technique reflect a commitment to quality and innovation that will appeal to whisky connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
HATOZAKI TRIPLE CASK RESERVE, 92 PROOF/ABV 46%
COLOR: Golden
NOSE: Fragrant oak spice with black tea and oranges, followed by dried apricots and a touch of vanilla harmonizing with the lightly toasted sweet barley aromas.
MOUTH: The palate opens with a gentle oak spiciness, accompanied by hints of dried peel and flavors of Umeshu. The mid-palate maintains a lightness, revealing more pronounced wood tones and a delicate presence of the spirit.
STYLE: Round, subtle, delicately sweet
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Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve (£58 / $75, 750ml, 46% ABV) joins the brand’s core range of whiskies including Hatozaki Finest Whisky (£38 / $45, 750ml, 40% ABV), and Small Batch Whisky (£50 / $65, 750ml, 46% ABV). All Hatozaki whiskies contain no colouring or chill filtration.
