Glenfiddich has created the first single malt Scotch whisky to be finished in rare Japanese ex-Awamori casks. The latest release within the Grand Series is a limited edition fusion celebrating the finest flavours from Scotland and Japan, Grand Yozakura is a 29 Year Old whisky matured at the Glenfiddich Distillery and finished in oak casks that have matured the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan, Awamori. Grande Yozakura celebrates Hanami – the “cherry blossom festival”, where Japan appreciates the temporal beauty of nature through the sakura.
Glenfiddich Malt Master, Brian Kinsman, said, “We are always looking to experiment with new finishes so when the chance arose to acquire rare ex-Awamori casks we saw an opportunity to push the boundaries and experiment with this highly unusual spirit. This is the first time that single malt Scotch whisky has been finished in these rare casks. We always learn something new when we lead with innovation so taking a risk is worth it, and in the case of Awamori we trialled a very small number of casks at a younger age first.
“Awamori is much like whisky, with a diverse range of flavours. Since embarking on this fusion, it’s been fascinating to focus on the oak and how it has been changed and adapted by contact with another spirit. The six month finish in ex-Awamori Casks compliments the smooth Glenfiddich taste profile, elevating the finish and lifting the flavour to a new level, accentuating the mouthfeel characters and zingy herbal notes unlike any in the series, or anything I have tasted before.”
Claudia Falcone, Glenfiddich Global Brand Director, said, “The Grand Series underpins Glenfiddich’s spirit of innovation and Grand Yozakura is no exception. It is perhaps the most ground-breaking expression to sit alongside the series so far, whilst also being the first limited edition release. Bringing together two scarce components accentuates the anticipation and sense of occasion, paying homage to the brand’s innovative nature when it comes to creating dynamic whiskies of the highest quality.”
Available from 27th March 2023 in luxury whisky retail outlets and premium establishments such as Harrod’s, Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura has a recommended retail price of £1,500 RRP.
