Kanosuke Distillery

Situated along Japan’s longest sand beach, Fukiagehama, Kanosuke Distillery was established in 2017. Located in Kagoshima Prefecture, on the southwestern tip of Kyushu Island, the distillery overlooks a striking 50-kilometre stretch of white sand dunes, providing an stunning location.

The distillery benefits from the serene yet occasionally fierce environment of the East China Sea. In the summer, the sea is calm and tranquil, while winter brings gusts of wind that whip up the ocean waters, contributing to the distinct climate. Nestled at about 7 meters above sea level, the distillery enjoys an annual average temperature of 16.9℃, with the extremes ranging from -4.0℃ to 35.1℃. This variation in temperature and the region’s abundant rainfall (2033.0 mm annually) creates a perfect setting for whisky maturation. Moreover, the area's crystal-clear groundwater, naturally filtered through the Shirasu Plateau, provides the distillery with pure, pristine water.

They have chosen to use three pot stills, whilst most distilleries of similar size typically will use two. These stills, each with varying neck shapes and lyne arm angles, provide greater flexibility in the distillation process. By distilling in the different stills and blending the resulting spirits, Kanosuke say they can craft a whisky with richer, more complex flavours and aromas. The stills are housed in a modern two-story, U-shaped building, where visitors are encouraged.

I thought all three of these to be very interesting, and certainly worth being on any serious whisky lovers radar. 

Kanosuke Double Distillery Japanese Whisky 53% - £98.95 from The Whisky Exchange

This has been made at two distilleries in Kagoshima. It comprises of a pot still barley whisky distilled at Hioki, and single malt distilled at Kanosuke. Both spirits have been aged at Kanosuke.  This whisky opens with vanilla and apricots with a subtle touch of mint. The palate is rich and well-rounded, of cinnamon, black tea, orange, and clove, with a slight creaminess. It finishes with a hint of oak, rich fruit notes, and just the right amount of bitterness to keep things interesting. 

Kanosuke Hioki Pot Still Japanese Whisky 51% - £94.95 from The Whisky Exchange

On the nose I found rich Madagascan vanilla and tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, balanced with a hint of citrus zest. The palate is powerful yet smooth, with flavours of caramel, cooked spiced apples, and even dark chocolate. I then got cinnamon and a little spice to finish. 

Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky 48% - £89.95 from The Whisky Exchange

The nose was full of honey, vanilla, pear and apple with almond and citrus at the back. The palate was like an apricot tart with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. Again, I found hints of chocolate, but this time milk. Coffee and toffee also made an appearance.