Kentucky Owl Takumi Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Kentucky Owl's Takumi Edition is a blend of 4, 5, 6 and 13-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons with mash bills containing corn, rye or wheat, and malted barley. John Rhea of Kentucky Owl and Yusuke Yahisa of Nagahama Distillery in Japan worked together to create the whiskey, with Rhea selecting four different formulations and sending the samples to Japan. Yahisa evaluated them, each one representing different ages and mash bills. He then created different blends using those formulations to develop one most reflective of his Japanese whisky style. "This collaboration encompasses not just the art of blending, but the flavors and taste profiles that both countries are famous for in their whiskeys," said Rhea. "The Takumi Edition provides bourbon lovers insight into the flavor profiles sought after by a Japanese whisky blender. As someone who has worked in the industry for several decades now, it was exciting for me to work with a rising star in whisky with a unique perspective."  The Japanese term kaizen — continuous improvement — echoes through the project. "Takumi" means "master" in Japanese, with the name of the release celebrating the art and craft of modern whisky blending. 50% Alc./Vol. Collectable.

Other reviews... Creamy caramel syrup, well-spiced apple pie, brown sugar, and a burst of cherry make for an enticing nose. Stay awhile, and more aromas emerge: light char is joined by lemon pound cake, baked apples, and vanilla fudge. The palate is silky smooth and offers raspberry jam, maple syrup, coconut flakes, more apples, and hot cinnamon spice; with water, it stays just as enjoyable, if a little less heated. The finish packs a baking spice punch and lingers on and on. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com

...This collaboration between Japanese whisky blender Yahisa Yusuke and Kentucky Owl master blender John Rhea debuted in September 2022. Look for a tawny hue and robust toffee, vanilla and dried date aromas. The silky palate opens with cocoa and oak, plus a hint of red fruit. Cinnamon and clove warm the drying finish. Limited edition. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com