Dewar’s 21-Yeard-Old Gets Mizunara Finish
Dewar’s is giving its 21-year-old whisky a specialized finish and you never guess how far they had to go to get the casks. The whisky is a double-aged spirit and will be given its final moments in Mizunara oak casks. The Bacardi-owned distillery has gone leaps and bounds to acquire these Japanese casks.
Notably, Mizunara oak originates from Japan and takes 200 years to reach maturity. Carpenters have some difficulty in crafting with the wood since the tree doesn’t grow straight. This makes it often difficult to acquire and mold into casks.
Dewar’s Goes Mizunara Oak for 21-Year-Old Finish
However, Dewar’s said the extra effort needed when working with Mizunara oak was ‘well worth it’, as it contributes a ‘balance of succulence, purity, and smoothness’. Despite the lengthy process, it makes for a unique whisky with lingering flavors. Many Japanese-based distilleries are choosing the wood as their preferred option for cask material.
As a matter of fact, the effect pushes the boundaries of modern whisky. Infused with sandalwood and coconut, it produces a ‘sweet clean’ finish that has a ‘touch of creamy vanilla’. The expression blends Japanese and Scottish distilling traditions.
Stephanie Macleod, master blender for Dewar’s, said: “The journey of creating this expression has been an exploration of flavors and craftsmanship. Together, my team and I introduced a distinctive twist to our award-winning Dewar’s Double Double 21 Years Old by finishing it in Japanese mizunara oak casks, creating a new and exciting whisky.
“This latest iteration in the Double Double Series is a testament to our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences to our connoisseurs.”
The Double Double series was launched in 2019 as a travel retail exclusive and featured three expressions aged 21, 27, and 32 years. The 21-year-old was finished in oloroso Sherry casks.
Brian Cox, vice-president of Dewar’s North America, added: “The unveiling of Dewar’s Double Double 21 Years Old Mizunara is a toast to change and growth.