Shirakawa (Silent) Japanese Single Malt Whisky 1958 Vintage
In stock
Discover the remarkable story of Japan’s rarest Single Malt Whisky, from the long lost Shirakawa distillery.
Shirakawa Distillery was one of the pioneers of Japanese malt whisky production, but the whisky was never bottled as a Single Malt. The majority was used a blending component for Takaro Shuzo’s King Whisky. The distillery produced malt Whisky until 1969, and was demolished in 2003.
In 2019, a vat of unblended Single Malt Whisky was discovered at one of Takara Shuzo’s production facilities in Japan. The Whisky was distilled in 1958, and was matured in oak (probably Mizunara) before being transferred into ceramic jars, and eventually stainless steel.
The discovery was the result of an extensive search through Takara Shuzo’s records and facilities. It is unlikely that any more exists, making this the first, last, and only Single Malt Whisky from Shirakawa Distillery.
THE TASTE OF LIQUID HISTORY
Award winning and internationally acclaimed whisky writer Dave Broom presents his tasting notes for Shirakawa 1958 Single Malt Japanese:
Product Details
Tasting Notes
Colour
Radiant golden amber with honeyed warmth and a whisper of coppery glow.
Nose
Resinous and aromatic, with dry earth and dried citrus peels, touched by a hint of wax. The bouquet feels elegant and layered. A drop of water brightens it, amplifying vibrancy while revealing maturity and a delicate incense note, lending an exotic, perfumed edge.
Palate
Expansive and succulent on the palate, with hints of fragrant grass and unfolding mid-palate fruits. Layered, spicy, and dry, it builds a refined texture; a touch of water draws out ash from an incense burner, delivering a satisfying mouthfeel and surprisingly perky acidity.
Finish
Nicely balanced and persistent, the finish carries a minty lift with a camphor-like, resinous edge and lingering incense notes.