Single Malt Miyagikyo
The Miyagikyo Single Malt hails from the Miyagikyo Distillery in Japan, renowned for its slow distillation process and innovative methods. This whisky is distilled using a combination of traditional pot stills and "giant stills," with a long (bended) line arm that ensures a particularly gentle distillation. With just 5 ppm (parts per million), the Miyagikyo has a subtle, almost invisible smoky presence that complements the flavors without dominating them. The whisky comes in at 45% ABV and does not carry an age statement, speaking to its modern yet well-structured expression.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression of the Miyagikyo is marked by a pleasant sweetness, with notes of banana and delicate vanilla. The smoky character is subtle but still noticeable, adding depth to the aroma. There's also a slightly earthy note reminiscent of potatoes—a mix of earth and peel, giving the nose a wild edge. Alongside this, malty undertones form a solid base for the aroma.
Palate
On the palate, the Miyagikyo is exceptionally creamy and smooth. The flavors unfold with a juicy, lightly fruity profile, with apple and a fine fruit sweetness standing out. There's a pleasant mix of sweet and lightly bitter tones that combine for a fascinating flavor experience. The smoky influence adds extra body to the whisky, while grain and a touch of brown sugar come through. The finish brings a slight bitterness that isn't overpowering and nicely rounds off the whisky's complexity.
Finish
The finish of the Miyagikyo is medium-length, with a mild but still present smoky character. It follows with a robust oak spice that gives the whisky structure, along with a hint of white pepper, tickling the palate and keeping the finish lively.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
A whisky that simply delights with its creamy sweetness and subtle smoke – perfect for relaxed evenings without any fuss. The slight earthiness gives the Miyagikyo a charming character that doesn’t come across as too polished but remains lively. For fans of a gentle yet characterful single malt, this dram is definitely worth a sip.
Sascha 78/100
The Miyagikyo impresses with its balanced blend of sweet fruit notes, gentle smokiness, and a clear, structured harmony. The subtle bitterness on the finish adds a pleasant complexity without disrupting the overall balance. A technically cleanly distilled whisky with a modern approach, it stands out especially for its precise flavor profile and fine oak spice.
Value for Money: Fair
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78/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Miyagikyo Single Malt have no age statement?
The Miyagikyo Single Malt deliberately forgoes an age statement to emphasize quality and flavor. Rather than focusing on a specific age, the distillery combines various casks to create a balanced and modern whisky with a clear structure.
How does the low peat level of 5 ppm affect the taste of Miyagikyo?
With only 5 ppm of peat, Miyagikyo is subtly smoky, giving the whisky a delicate depth without overpowering the fruity and sweet aromas. This light smokiness harmoniously complements the fruity notes of apple and banana as well as the malty and spicy nuances.
What is the difference between the traditional pot stills and the 'Giant Stills' used in Miyagikyo’s distillation?
The Miyagikyo distillery uses both traditional pot stills and larger 'Giant Stills' equipped with a long, curved distillation arm (Bended Line Arm). This combination allows for an especially gentle distillation that preserves complex aromas and makes the whisky soft and creamy.