The Mizunara Difference
Mizunara oak has become a symbol of craftsmanship and dedication. Whiskey producers who use Mizunara oak are often celebrated for their willingness to invest the time and care required to achieve the full potential of this oak. As a result, Mizunara-aged whiskies are often seen as a premium offering, appreciated for their distinctive profile and luxurious nature.
LACTONES
Lactones, particularly oak lactones, are compounds extracted from oak wood during the aging process and are pivotal in shaping the aroma and taste of the spirit.
Studies have demonstrated that whiskey aged in Mizunara oak barrels contains higher concentrations of these lactones compared to those aged in　European or American oak barrels. Notably, the Mizunara-aged whiskey exhibits a predominance of trans-oak lactones. This finding is intriguing because cis-oak lactones are believed to have a scent up to ten times more potent than their trans counterparts. The elevated levels of both cis- and trans-oak lactones in Mizunara aged whiskey contribute to its distinctive flavor profile.
FLAVOR
PROFILE
The elevated levels of both cis-oak lactones and trans-oak lactones in Mizunara-aged whiskey contribute to its distinctive flavor profile, characterized by,
Sweet and Spicy Notes: A harmonious blend of sweetness and spice, attributed to the specific lactone composition.
Aromatic Nuances: Scents reminiscent of oriental incense (kara), sandalwood, and coconut, enhancing the complexity of the whiskey.
The unique interplay of these compounds imparts a flavor and aroma profile to Mizunara-aged whiskey that is distinct from those matured in other types of oak, offering whiskey enthusiasts a unique tasting experience.
TIME
The full depth of Mizunara-aged whiskey often requires extended maturation. Mizunara oak is tight-grained, limiting direct interaction between the spirit and the wood compared to more porous oaks like European or American varieties. This slower interaction means it takes longer for the whiskey to absorb the distinct flavors and aromas from the Mizunara. As a result, longer aging is typically needed to develop the complexity associated with this oak.
The “magic” of Mizunara lies in its gradual, refined infusion of unique compounds—lactones, phenols, and tannins—that take time to integrate with the spirit, creating a balanced flavor profile marked by creamy coconut and exotic spice notes.
New Mizunara Barrels
"Crafting Traditions and Elevating Spirits"
Hand Selected Mizunara, Engineered for Perfection
In the world of fine spirits, Mizunara oak is revered for its rare,
complex flavors and unmistakable
character. Each barrel begins
with meticulously hand-selected
Mizunara oak, chosen for its exceptional grain and aging potential. Traditionally challenging to work with, this legendary wood is now transformed through precision engineering—where advanced technology meets time-honored craftsmanship. The result? Barrels that preserve the soul of Mizunara while offering superior durability, leak resistance, and unparalleled aging performance.
Aging Spirits to perfection with Mizunara's unique touch
Mizunara oak barrels, native to Japan, impart unique ethereal flavors of sandalwood, creamy coconut, and exotic spices to spirits. Despite its challenging grain, Mizunara oak transforms spirits with its distinct
character.
Experience the mystique of Mizunara oak, a wood that demands patience and rewards with unparalleled flavors. Its unique characteristics make it a coveted choice for distillers seeking to create exceptional spirits.
Hand Crafted Elegance, Unmatched Complexity
The irregular grain and naturally curving growth patterns of Mizunara oak make it a challenging wood to work with. However, the result is handcrafted elegance and unmatched complexity, offering a unique
character to aged spirits.
​Despite the wood’s challenging grain, advanced technology in our cooperages ensures precision crafting, resulting in leak-resistant barrels. This blend of tradition
and innovation maximizes performance and elevates the flavor profile of the finest spirits, making Mizunara barrels a coveted choice for distillers.
Crafting Tradition
1
Char Level
Mizunara oak barrels are meticulously crafted to enhance the aging process of whiskey. The char level, ranging from light to heavy,
plays a crucial role in flavor development.
2
Toasting Effect
In addition to charring, our
Mizunara oak barrels undergo a toasting process. This involves heating the wood at lower temperatures to enhance flavor development
and structural integrity.
Toasting effects vary based
on temperature, duration, and
moisture, resulting in flavors
ranging from caramelized sugars and toasted nuts to spicy oak and baking spices.
3
Customisation
Our service enables distillers to customize Mizunara oak barrels with specific char levels and toasting techniques. By combining these with Mizunara’s unique properties, we help craft distinctive whiskey expressions that expand flavor and aroma profiles. This tailored approach ensures each barrel meets our clients' precise needs, resulting in signature products that stand out in a competitive market.
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Charring
C1
Light Char
This level preserves the
original flavor of the Japanese
Sake while imparting
a beautiful woody aroma
from the oak, resulting in
a fragrant and sharp taste.
It is slow to develop color
and mature, making it ideal
for long-term aging.
C2
Medium Char
The standard specification,
commonly used in whiskey
and Japanese Shochu. It
enhances the sweet aroma
of nuts and vanilla,
providing a full-bodied
taste. While the extraction
of woody components is
crucial for aging, this char
level also requires time to
develop, making it suitable
for medium to long-term
C2
Medium Char
The standard specification,
commonly used in whiskey
and Japanese Shochu. It
enhances the sweet aroma
of nuts and vanilla,
providing a full-bodied
taste. While the extraction
of woody components is
crucial for aging, this char
level also requires time to
develop, making it suitable
for medium to long-term
C2
Medium Char
The standard specification,
commonly used in whiskey
and Japanese Shochu. It
enhances the sweet aroma
of nuts and vanilla,
providing a full-bodied
taste. While the extraction
of woody components is
crucial for aging, this char
level also requires time to
develop, making it suitable
for medium to long-term
