Shinobu Shogun Mizunara Wood: The Art of the Japanese Malt

Command your senses with Shinobu Shogun Mizunara Wood, a prestigious Japanese Malt Whisky that embodies the spirit of the samurai. Crafted by Master Blender Ken Usami at the Niigata Beer Distillery, this "Shogun" edition is a tribute to Japan’s feudal history and its world-renowned mastery of rare oak maturation.

The Mizunara Magic: Rare Japanese Oak

The soul of this whisky lies in its finish in Mizunara Oak. Known as the most expensive and difficult oak to work with, Mizunara is native to Japan and must be at least 200 years old before it can be harvested. This "Water Oak" imparts a legendary flavour profile to Shinobu Whisky, characterized by its distinct incense-like aroma and silky, sandalwood finish that is the hallmark of elite Japanese Malts.

Sensory Profile

  • Nose: An elegant and floral opening. Notes of ripe orchard fruits and zesty lemon peel are enveloped by the signature Mizunara scent of sandalwood and temple incense.
  • Palate: Deeply complex and balanced. Taste layers of sweet honey and toasted nuts, followed by a delicate hint of coconut, black pepper, and ginger spice.
  • Finish: Long, smooth, and deeply aromatic. The woody spice of the Mizunara wood lingers alongside a touch of floral vanilla and a whisper of wild mint.

Crafted in Niigata: The Land of Pure Water

The Shinobu Distillery is located in the Niigata region, an area famous in Japan for its "Three White Treasures"—snow, rice, and sake. This pristine environment provides the soft, pure water essential for creating a refined and "breathable" spirit. By marrying high-quality malts and finishing them in these rare casks, Shinobu creates a bridge between traditional Scotch-style distilling and authentic Japanese craftsmanship.

Bottled with no added colouring and non-chill filtered, the Shogun Edition is designed for the purist. It is a bold, high-integrity whisky that captures the strength and grace of the legendary Japanese commanders for whom it is named.

The Collector’s Note For enthusiasts of Yamazaki or Hibiki seeking the elusive spice of Mizunara at a more accessible level, the Shinobu Shogun is an essential addition. Its striking bottle design and sophisticated liquid make it a centrepiece for any Japanese Whisky collection.