IKINOKURA DISTILLERY 'ONE FIVE' Honkaku White Barley Shochu Bottle - Nagasaki (72cl) 30%abv

Description

IN BRIEF
IKINOKURA DISTILLERY 'ONE FIVE' Honkaku White Barley Shochu is a remarkable spirit born from the first collaboration between distillers from Iki and Goto islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The name "1 • 5 ONE FIVE" signifies the harmonious blend of these regions, with "1" representing Iki and "5" symbolising Goto. The sky-blue bottle reflects the vibrant seas surrounding the islands. Crafted with a thoughtful balance of 60% spirit from Ikinokura Distillery and 40% from Goto Retto Distillery, this shochu captures the essence of both locations. On the nose, it offers refreshing aromas of red apple, ripe peach, and creamy banana, complemented by floral notes. Its versatility allows enjoyment on the rocks or diluted, making it perfect for casual gatherings and celebrating craftsmanship.

ABOUT THIS SOCHU
IKINOKURA DISTILLERY 'ONE FIVE' Honkaku White Barley Shochu is an exceptional expression that marks the first collaboration between distillers from the picturesque Iki and Goto islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The name “1 • 5 ONE FIVE” signifies the harmonious blend of these two regions, with “1” representing Iki and “5” symbolising Goto. The sky-blue colour of the bottle beautifully reflects the vibrant seas that envelop these idyllic islands, evoking a sense of the natural beauty from which this shochu is derived.

To craft this distinctive spirit, the distillers engaged in a collaborative process, visiting each other’s facilities to determine the ideal blend that would highlight the unique characteristics of each shochu. The result is a thoughtfully balanced fusion: 60% spirit from Ikinokura Distillery and 40% from Goto Retto Distillery. This harmonious percentage reflects the essence of both islands, allowing drinkers to experience the charm and nuances of each location.

On the nose, ONE FIVE presents a refreshing and modern style, characterised by enticing aromas of red apple, ripe peach, and creamy banana, complemented by delicate floral notes. The initial sip reveals a delightful mouthfeel, showcasing a luxurious umami quality that lingers on the palate. The combination of these fruity and floral elements creates an engaging tasting experience that feels both light and invigorating.

This Honkaku White Barley Shochu is versatile in its serving options; it can be enjoyed on the rocks for a refreshing experience or diluted with a touch of cold or warm water to reveal its intricate flavours further. Ideal for warm evenings or casual gatherings, IKINOKURA DISTILLERY 'ONE FIVE' is a true celebration of collaboration and craftsmanship, bringing the spirit of Iki and Goto to life with every sip.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Ikinokura Distillery, also known as Ikinokura Shuzo, is a distinguished Japanese sake and shochu producer with a rich history dating back to 1823. Located in the Kumamoto Prefecture, the distillery harnesses the region’s abundant natural resources, particularly its pure water and high-quality rice, to craft premium beverages that reflect the essence of Japanese tradition.

The distillery is renowned for its dedication to traditional brewing techniques, ensuring that each bottle of sake embodies the craftsmanship and time-honoured practices passed down through generations. Ikinokura produces various types of sake, ranging from Junmai to Ginjo and Daiginjo, each showcasing a unique flavour profile. The sake is made from locally sourced rice, which is polished meticulously to enhance its quality and deliver a depth of character that appeals to both novices and connoisseurs alike.

In addition to sake, Ikinokura excels in producing shochu, a traditional Japanese distilled spirit. The distillery's shochu is crafted from diverse ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. Each type reflects the unique terroir of Kumamoto, offering an array of flavours that highlight the distinct qualities of the raw materials.

The philosophy of Ikinokura is rooted in craftsmanship and sustainability. The distillery is committed to preserving traditional brewing methods while embracing innovative techniques, resulting in beverages that are both authentic and forward-thinking. Awarded for its excellence in various local and international competitions, Ikinokura has cemented its reputation as a producer of exceptional sake and shochu.

Beyond production, Ikinokura actively participates in cultural events, promoting understanding and appreciation of Japanese sake and shochu, thus helping to preserve and celebrate Japan's rich alcoholic heritage. The distillery embodies a blend of history, artistry, and community, making it a cherished institution in the world of Japanese spirits.