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Japan has a rich tradition of producing top-quality spirits, with sake and shochu being some of the most popular. In recent years, Japanese whisky has gained a reputation for being some of the best in the world. Although Suntory and Nikka are the most well-known Japanese whisky brands, there are many others that are gaining recognition. One of the newer brands is Tenjaku, a blended whisky that has been making waves in the whisky world.
The Story of Tenjaku
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Tenjaku is a relatively new addition to the world of Japanese whisky, having only been released in 2018. It is produced by the Matsui Shuzo Distillery, which is located in Tottori Prefecture, in the western part of Japan. The distillery has been producing sake and shochu for over a century, but it wasn't until recently that they decided to venture into the world of whisky.
The name "Tenjaku" is derived from the celestial bird of Japanese mythology, which represents good fortune and prosperity. The brand aims to embody this spirit through its unique blend of malt and grain whiskies and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Production Process
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Tenjaku is a fine whisky that is expertly crafted by blending malt and grain whiskies to create a smooth and harmonious flavor. Tenjaku uses only 100% Japanese barley in their malt whiskies, which is carefully malted and distilled in small batches to ensure the best quality and flavor.
The grain whiskies are made from a blend of corn and barley using a continuous distillation process, resulting in a lighter and smoother taste that complements the complex flavors of the malt whiskies.
These whiskies are then handpicked, mixed, and aged in bourbon barrels for at least three years, allowing them to develop a distinct taste with hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
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Water is a crucial component in producing high-quality whisky, and Fuefuki is fortunate to have access to exceptional natural water from the Misaka mountain range. This pure underground water is filtered through porous volcanic rock, resulting in a velvety-smooth texture and a slightly alkaline pH. The moderate mineral content of the water ensures that the whisky produced from it is smooth, easy to drink, and perfectly balanced in flavor.
Tasting Notes
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Tenjaku is a smooth and easy-to-drink whisky that is perfect for both beginners and seasoned whisky drinkers. It has a light amber color and a sweet, fruity aroma. On the palate, it's slightly spicy, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. This whisky has a long and smooth finish with a subtle smoky taste. This beverage has a harmonious blend of flavors and can be savored in various ways, whether you like it straight, with ice, or as part of a mixed drink.
Awards and Recognition
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While Tenjaku is still relatively unknown compared to other Japanese whisky brands, it's slowly gaining recognition and popularity. Tenjaku has been the recipient of several accolades, most notably a gold medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. These accolades are evidence of the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that are invested in every bottle of Tenjaku. It is probable that Tenjaku will become a common item in bars and liquor stores worldwide as more individuals become aware of its distinct flavor and high quality.
What Makes Tenjaku Stand Out
Tenjaku stands out because it's a blend of malt and grain whiskies, which is a unique combination of Japanese whisky. The malt whiskies are made from 100% Japanese barley, while the grain whiskies are made from a blend of corn and barley, distilled using a continuous distillation process.
The combination of malt and grain whiskies results in a deliciously balanced and smooth flavor that is suitable for both novice and experienced whisky enthusiasts. The aging process in bourbon barrels for a minimum of three years adds depth and complexity, resulting in a whisky with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
Pairing Suggestions
Tenjaku is a versatile whisky that pairs well with a variety of flavors. It's perfect for sipping on its own, but it also works well in cocktails. Here are a few pairing suggestions:
- Cheese: Tenjaku pairs well with a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese.
- Chocolate: The sweet notes in Tenjaku make it a great pairing for chocolate.
- Grilled meats: The smokiness in Tenjaku pairs well with grilled meats like steak and lamb.
Conclusion
Japanese whisky has been gaining popularity worldwide over the past few years, and Tenjaku is a brand that stands out from the rest. With its unique blend of malt and grain whiskies, combined with its smooth and well-balanced taste, Tenjaku is a standout in the world of Japanese whisky. Whether you're sipping it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Tenjaku is sure to impress. With its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Tenjaku is a brand that is definitely worth keeping an eye on in the coming years.