Kamiki Original

Kamiki Original is the flagship 48% ABV blended malt whisky from the Kamiki brand in Japan's Nara region. It combines Japanese malt whiskies with malt whiskies selected from around the world and undergoes a second maturation in Japanese cedar (Yoshino Sugi) casks.

How is it made?

Kamiki is prepared in a facility set up in a restored building over a century old, in the village of Soni in Nara, using spring water from the Soni highlands. After maturing in oak, the blend is transferred to Yoshino Sugi casks; the brand presents this as the first whisky finished in Japanese cedar casks. The blend is not made to a predetermined ratio but at the moment the aroma reaches its peak, and it is bottled without chill filtration. Its name comes from a combination of kami, meaning "god", and a word meaning "breath".

What does Kamiki Original taste like?

The nose shows delicate sandalwood and cedar. The palate offers a silky texture, depth from the cedar, sandalwood warmth and soft grain sweetness; the producer also mentions notes of honey, caramel, Japanese plum and toffee. The finish is soft, closing cleanly with green tea and cool cedar notes.

How should it be served, and what food does it pair with?

It can be enjoyed neat, with a few drops of water, or as a highball with soda. Its woody, refreshing character pairs well with sushi, grilled fish and mature cheeses.