The 2014 bottling of Hanyu (Ichiro's Malt) "The Game" primarily corresponds to the "The Game" limited-edition single malt whisky series, a collaboration between Ichiro Akuto's Venture Whisky and the renowned Japanese liquor retailer Shinanoya. This series released two highly collectible Hanyu distillery single cask whiskies in 2014.
Key Specifications
- Dilution Year: 1988 (from the now-discontinued legendary Hanyu Distillery)
- Bottling Year: 2014 (aged for 26 years)
- Casing Type: Hogshead cask, #471
- ABV: 51.9%
- Limited Edition: Only 192 bottles worldwide
This 26-year-old Yuzuru Hanyu exhibits unparalleled complexity and sophistication:
- Nose: The highly recognizable classic Yuzuru style. The initial taste is rich black cherry with aromatherapy-like botanical essential oils. This is followed by the release of saffron, frankincense, ginger, fennel, five-spice powder, and a calm, cool, smoky finish.
- Palate: Full-bodied and rich, with deep oriental spice and woody notes, accompanied by the ripe fruit sweetness of plum, dates, and raisins.
