Anticipation Grows for the Launch of Ontake Single Malt Kakejiku Series
Tomorrow, August 28th at 9 PM, the long-awaited online sale of the Ontake Single Malt Kakejiku Series will kick off. Even before its official release, over 650 enthusiasts have signed up for early notifications, highlighting significant interest in this new offering. This unique whiskey is part of a limited release of just 582 bottles, featuring a single cask strength spirit distilled at the Ontake Distillery in Kagoshima, Japan.
This first edition of the Kakejiku Series, which spans 2021 to 2026, has been carefully matured for five years in first-fill Oloroso sherry butts, boasting a robust alcohol content of 58%. Renowned Master of Whisky Kazunori Shizutani has dedicated approximately five years to selecting this exceptional single cask, which is a testament to his expertise in the world of whiskey.
Ahead of the online launch, a special seminar on August 1st at the BAR Shinjuku Whiskey Salon was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, leading to a full house. The attendees were asked to provide feedback on their tasting experience, and the results were impressive—96% of respondents expressed their willingness to recommend the whiskey, showcasing its wide appeal in the whiskey community.
Furthermore, a tasting session with water added revealed that all participants noticed significant changes in scent and flavor, with 70% reporting enhanced aroma and 57% indicating an increase in sweetness and fruitiness. This versatility makes the 58% cask strength offering an exciting experience for whiskey lovers.
Diverse Options for Enjoyment
To cater to different preferences, The Plinius has launched four distinct purchasing options for the Kakejiku Series:
1.
Ontake Kakejiku Series Single Bottle - Priced at 15,950 JPY (tax included), this allows you to enjoy the whiskey straight, with a shipping fee of 1,000 JPY.
2.
Charity Bottle - Sold for 16,450 JPY (200 bottles only), a portion of the proceeds will be donated to recovery efforts for the Kumamoto earthquake victims. This initiative encourages customers to participate in charitable giving along with their purchase.
3.
Saki Glass Set - Combining the whiskey with specially designed ‘Saki Glasses’ for a price of 25,850 JPY (tax included) and free shipping to enhance the tasting experience with aroma and flavor nuances.
4.
Tasting Note Set - Priced at 16,950 JPY (tax included), this includes a tasting notebook for recording impressions, helping enthusiasts to deeply explore the whiskey's profile through observations and notes.
The Kakejiku Series: More than Just Whiskey
The Kakejiku Series represents an embodiment of Japanese aesthetics and cultural storytelling within each bottle. Developed by The Plinius, this series connects the rich narrative of the whiskey's origin to its consumers. The concept of Kakejiku—a traditional Japanese scroll used for seasonal decoration—intertwines with the brand's philosophy, presenting a unique experience that goes beyond mere drinking.
Kagoshima’s Ontake, chosen for its volcanic backdrop and cultural significance, symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, akin to the ascending dragon depicted in traditional art. This launch marks the beginning of a series that aims to celebrate Japan’s beauty and craftsmanship in whiskey production.
About The Plinius and Its Vision
Founded by Royal Mile Co., The Plinius focuses on bringing the history and culture behind every spirit to the forefront, using art and storytelling. Known for its meticulous selection process, the brand aims to provide a rich experience that informs consumers about the origins and artisanship of the whiskey they enjoy.
With its kickoff event receiving acclaim and the community eagerly anticipating the products, the Ontake Single Malt Kakejiku Series is set to make waves in the whiskey market. As the release date approaches, there's no doubt that this offering will not only highlight the craftsmanship of Japanese whiskey but also foster a deeper appreciation for the stories behind each bottle.