Article first published by our partner, Japanese Whisky Dictionary. Visit them here. Find the original article here.

The Kanosuke Artist Edition is inspired by the “five elements” philosophy, which is deeply rooted in Japanese people’s lives, and was created by an artist active in various fields who designed an original label based on the concept of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.

The motif of the first “Single Malt Kanosuke Artist Edition #001” is “Tree” Non-pit malt aged in American white oak litchi casks, this is the first full bottle of 2022 from the Kanosuke distillery.

The Bottle

The distillery is located on a small hill on the north side of the Kanosuke distillery, where several casks of English non-pit malt from American white oak rich casks are carefully selected to be matured to the lullaby of the sea noise. The label design is by Mariko Hirasawa, an illustrator who draws on the motif of “wood” in the Five Elements philosophy.

Comment from Mariko Hirasawa

I depicted an oak tree growing strongly from the earth of Kagoshima to the sky.

I imagined the whisky born in Europe is now growing healthily here in Kagoshima.

And not only for men, but also for women who live with strength and suppleness like this tree.

The color of the product is gentle, with the hope that you will hold it in your hand.

(It is said that trees in the Yin-Yang Five Elements are represented by the colors green and light blue.)

Mariko Hirasawa Instagram

Quote: From Sase Sake Shop

Our Take

The moderate alcohol content and the unique sweetness of American oak, like honey and vanilla, are likely to sting those who are stung. The roasted bitterness, reminiscent of bitter chocolate, is a nice accent and will not bore you. The image of fruitiness like grapes and green apples, and the woodiness with a hint of mint support the aroma and taste.

It is a very gentle and pleasant drink with little loss of character even when watered down.

We recommend drinking it straight first. Then gradually add more water to find your favorite flavor.

The “Artist Edition” will be sold once a year. We are looking forward to next year’s Artist Edition, not only for the casks used and the flavor, but also for the motif and label design. I feel that this series should truly be called a work of art.

(All Images Courtesy of JPWhisky.net)

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