Shirakawa (Silent) - Japanese Single Malt 1958 Whisky

Discover the remarkable story of Japan’s rarest Single Malt Whisky, from the long lost S.hirakawa distillery.

S.hirakawa 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:

Nose: Resinous, slight dry earth, dried citrus peels, a hint of wax. Aromatic. A drop of water makes it more vibrant and also shows clear maturity as well as a hint of incense. Exotic.

Palate: The palate is expansive with a succulent texture and hints of fragrant grass. Fruits emerge in the middle. Layered, spiced, and dry. Water brings out ash from an incense burner, a satisfying mouthfeel and surprisingly perky acidity.

Finish: Nicely balanced and persistent on the finish which picks up mint flavouring and makes it more camphor-like.