Teeling Whiskey has announced the release of the Explorers Series 15 Year Old Japanese Edition Irish Whiskey in Australia.
The expression pushes the boundaries of Irish Whiskey craftsmanship by incorporating unique Mugi Shochu casks, resulting in an extraordinary blend of Irish and Japanese influences.
Teeling Whiskey was initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels for 11 years to capture the full character you would expect from Irish whiskey before an additional four years aging in unique ex-Mugi Shochu spirit casks sourced directly from Japan.
Shochu is the hidden gem of Japanese spirits and is consumed more than sake domestically. This Japanese Shochu is crafted from Mugi, the Japanese for barley, fermented using the traditional Koji fermentation process before it is distilled in a pot still and matured in traditional Japanese oak casks. The resulting Mugi Shochu is a distinct light yet exotic fruity spirit unique to Japan.
The influence of these unique casks brings forth a harmonious marriage of flavours, infusing the Whiskey with delicate notes of toasted barley, exotic lychee and passion fruit notes, and a subtle hint of oak.
Teeling Whiskey Founder and Managing Director Jack Teeling said: “With our new Explorers Series 15 Year Old Japanese Edition, we have pushed the boundaries of Irish Whiskey by incorporating elements of Japanese craft spirits. Through a friend living in Japan we could source these casks directly and have been waiting patiently for over four years before we felt it was the right time to bottle up this one of a kind whiskey. We believe this unique collaboration has resulted in a whiskey that truly represents the spirit of exploration, innovation, and craftsmanship that Teeling Whiskey stands for.”
This limited-edition release comes adorned with intricate Japanese-inspired artwork on the tube and label, reflecting the fusion of cultures embodied in the whiskey. This is the first Explorers Series that Teeling Whiskey has released that is available outside of travel retail. Teeling 15-Year Old Japanese Explorer’s Edition is available to buy in Dan Murphy’s at $175.