Glenfiddich has introduced the latest release from its ground-breaking Grand Series whisky collection, fusing flavours from Scotland and Japan.
Grand Yozakura, which is described as the first single malt Scotch whisky to be finished in rare ex-awamori spirit casks, will make its travel retail debut in selected airports in Europe and Asia from late March, supported by high-profile activations.
The 29yo limited-edition whisky is matured at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown and finished in oak casks that previously matured awamori, the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan.
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| Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura 29yo single malt Scotch whisky |
Awamori is made using long grain indica rice, and is traditionally stored in clay pots and matured in oak casks. It is said that the technique for making the spirit has not been altered in over 500 years. Only a small proportion of awamori is aged in oak casks, making them exceptionally rare.
Grand Yozakura celebrates Hanami – the renowned cherry blossom festival, when Japan celebrates the beauty of nature through the sakura. A time for renewal and optimism, the festival is best experienced illuminated after dark, where it is known as the Yozakura or night sakura.
The packaging of Grand Yozakura aims to bring this meeting of cultures to life with a signature illustration created by Japanese artist June, who creates visions incorporating Japanese culture and landscapes. The whisky packaging includes a bespoke topper and traditional poem printed onto each specially designed outer.
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.”
Glenfiddich Global Brand Director Claudia Falcone enthused: “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.”
Gwilym Cooke, Head of Brand Marketing for Global Travel Retail at Glenfiddich’s brand owner William Grant & Sons, added: “We are pleased to once again be partnering with key retailers to showcase this latest addition to our pioneering Grand Series collection within travel retail – a vital channel for the luxury spirits business. In line with our commitment to innovate, this new whisky offers a unique taste experience and compelling story that will be hugely appealing to both new and established whisky drinkers.”
Tasting notes
On the nose: Zesty, ripe fruits and caramelised almonds. Rich oak notes with hints of cinnamon and a distinctive herbal zing. Taste: Toasted oak, creamy vanilla toffee and silky tannin. Bursts of spice and sherbet lemons with crunchy green apple and warming earthy tones. Finish: Long-lasting oak.
