GINKGO is a remarkable Japanese blended malt whisky. Although not as ancient as the tree from which it gets its name, GINKGO Blended Malt Whisky is unique. Originating from a country where whisky is traditionally not exchanged between producers, GINKGO contains single malt whiskies from the majority of Japan’s malt whisky distilleries. It is, therefore, a true taste of Japan.
Blended by Ichiro Akuto, formerly of Hanyu Distillery, and launched in Japan under the name Chrysanthemum, GINKGO is a limited annual release of which 50% remains in the domestic market and 50% is distributed internationally through Number One Drinks Company.
Marcin Miller, Director of Number One Drinks Company, states; “There is a genuine thirst among whisky enthusiasts for new products and new flavours, especially in the sophisticated markets of northern Europe. The very best Japanese whiskies can offer something for those new to the category, because of their accessibility, as well as for those aficionados looking for something different. GINKGO’s intriguingly complex nose and spicy palate make it an ideal accompaniment to Japanese and other Asian foods.”
Japanese whisky authority and Editor of Whisky Magazine Japan, Dave Broom gave GINKGO the following tasting note in Wine & Spirit:
Colour: Light gold
Nose: It starts citric (grapefruit) and estery (acetone) then softens to reveal banana milk shake, Victoria sponge, butter and a floral note. It's a Japanese take on an English tea shoppe. There’s just a hint of fragrant smoke at the back. Maybe the waitress is having a sly puff of a cigar out the back door. Classic Japanese precision and clarity.
Palate: Pure and clean and though light-bodied it has a succulent sweet centre. Spicier and more acidic than the nose suggests which gives a liveliness to the creamy mushed up fruits in the centre.
Conclusion: A well-balanced light fresh aperitif
GINKGO is bottled at 46% ABV. It is available in the UK through The Whisky Exchange at a retail price of £52.50 and through other whisky specialists. GINKGO is also available in Denmark, France, Norway and Sweden. For further information, samples and images, please contact rubyna@qcltd.co.uk or call +44 (0)1603 631108. Visit www.onedrinks.co.uk
