Whisky Review/Tasting: Sasanokawa Cherry Ex

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is from the Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, produced by the Sasanokawa company, which also operates the Yamasa Kuga Distillery.
Type: It is a high-quality blended whisky, containing both malt and grain whiskies.
Distillation and Maturation: Specific details about the distillation and maturation processes are not provided, but it is mentioned that the whisky is selected from reserve barrels, implying a careful selection process.
Age Statement: No age statement is provided.
Color and Bottle Design: The color and design of the bottle are not described, but the whisky is noted to be very light in character.

The whisky is described as fresh with herbal notes, including pine and mint, and a hint of lime. It is light in strength and intensity, with a slight sourness and faint cask notes upon swallowing. Despite its name, there is no cherry or fruitiness detected, but a peppermint note becomes more pronounced over time. Overall, it is characterized as a very light whisky.

The distillery is somewhat elusive, with the host noting difficulty in locating it during a tour of Japan. This adds a layer of mystery to the whisky, as the distillery does not openly welcome visitors and seems to prefer a degree of anonymity.

The whisky's production in the Fukushima Prefecture and its connection to the Yamasa Kuga Distillery highlight its Japanese origin. The mention of the Nikamiya Gigio plant nearby situates the whisky within a specific regional context, though its significance beyond location is not elaborated.

The host expresses confusion and curiosity about the name "Cherry Ex," as the tasting reveals no cherry or fruity flavors. The whisky is described as "strange" multiple times, indicating its unique and unexpected flavor profile.

Sasanokawa Cherry Ex is a high-quality blended Japanese whisky from the Fukushima Prefecture, produced by the elusive Sasanokawa company.
It features a light, fresh flavor profile with herbal, pine, mint, and lime notes, but lacks the expected cherry or fruity flavors suggested by its name.
The distillery's preference for anonymity adds a layer of mystery to the whisky.
The whisky is described as very light, making it potentially appealing to those who prefer lighter whiskies but possibly disappointing for those seeking intense wood flavors or fruitiness.
The host's repeated description of the whisky as "strange" underscores its unique and unexpected characteristics.

For Light Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate light, fresh whiskies with herbal notes might find Sasanokawa Cherry Ex intriguing.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Those curious about unique and unconventional whiskies may be drawn to its mysterious background and unusual flavor profile.
For Collectors: Collectors interested in whiskies from lesser-known distilleries or with unique stories might consider adding this to their collection.
Not Recommended for: Fans of intense, wood-flavored, or fruity whiskies might not find this whisky to their liking due to its very light and non-fruity character.