Matsui The Kurayoshi Pure Malt 18 Year Old is a rare and distinguished Japanese whisky of genuine maturity and complexity — crafted at the Matsui distillery in Kurayoshi, found in the foothills of Mt. Daisen in Japan, a region renowned for its exceptionally fine water that is integral to the distilling process. Kurayoshi translates as “Life is good” — a philosophy that speaks to the patience and care that 18 years of ageing in the region’s varied climate delivers. The deep, rich fragrance confirms its maturity: honey, delicate vanilla, smoky and spicy multi-layered flavour, and a refreshing mint aftertaste. A whisky made by barrel and by nature — and one of the finest expressions of Japanese pure malt whisky available.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep, rich amber with mahogany tones — the concentrated, mature colour of a pure malt Japanese whisky aged for 18 years in the varied climate of the Mt. Daisen foothills, where the annual temperature range accelerates ageing and develops exceptional depth and complexity.
Aroma
Deep and richly fragrant — the maturity of 18 years is immediately evident, with honey and delicate vanilla leading, followed by smoky and spicy multi-layered notes that speak eloquently of the Kurayoshi distillery’s patient, nature-driven approach to whisky making.
Palate
Sweet honey and delicate, savoury vanilla carry through a palate of genuine depth and complexity — smoky and spicy multi-layered flavours build through the mid-palate, before a refreshing mint aftertaste provides a clean, elegant, and memorable finish. A whisky of rare distinction and refinement.
Pairs With
Matsui The Kurayoshi Pure Malt 18 Year Old is best enjoyed neat or with a single drop of water to open the aromas — equally rewarding alongside dark chocolate, smoked salmon, aged hard cheeses, and delicate Japanese cuisine.
