HATOZAKI WHISKY LAUNCHES TRIPLE CASK RESERVE: A NEW PERMANENT LABEL
The latest expression from Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa joins the core range of premium world whiskies finished at the Kaikyō Distillery in Southern Japan
Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve. Photo credit: Hatozaki Whisky
New York, New York – (April 16, 2025) — Hatozaki Whisky is pleased to announce the release of their newest expression, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve. An original and rare expression, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve embodies Master Distiller and Blender Kimio Yonezawa’s vision to create delicate, beautiful world whiskies in the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship. The new bottle is now available in the US for a suggested retail price of $74.99 (750-ml).
Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve represents the precision and artistry honed by Kimio Yonezawa over decades of study and application of the highest standard of whisky-making techniques. A blend of hand-selected malt whiskies, the liquid is aged first in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks before finishing for an additional six months in superior Umeshu plum liqueur barrels. Known as “ume,” Umeshu plum liqueur is a popular Japanese liqueur crafted from steeping local green plums in Japanese distillate. This maturation, unique to Triple Cask Reserve, imparts delicate, complex flavors of zesty citrus, refreshing herbal notes like tea, and subtle sweetness.
“Finishing a whisky in Umeshu plum liqueur barrels is rare in the whisky world, and I wanted to explore how the flavorful plum liqueur influence would transform the blend,” says Kimio Yonezawa. “The intense plum aromas add a layer of depth and subtle sweetness that sets it apart from other traditionally distilled whiskies.”
Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the southern coast of Japan, Hatozaki Whisky is a signature expression of Yonezawa’s modern whisky making. Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve emerges as an elegant yet accessible whisky, best sipped slowly and savored with friends and family to create memorable moments. It is now available in most major US markets.
HATOZAKI TRIPLE CASK RESERVE, 92 PROOF/ABV 46%
COLOR: Golden
NOSE: Fragrant oak spice with black tea and oranges, followed by dried apricots and a touch of vanilla harmonizing with the lightly toasted sweet barley aromas.
MOUTH: The palate opens with a gentle oak spiciness, accompanied by hints of dried peel and flavors of Umeshu. The mid-palate maintains a lightness, revealing more pronounced wood tones and a delicate presence of the spirit.
STYLE: Round, subtle, delicately sweet
Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve joins the brand’s core range of whiskies including Hatozaki Finest Whisky ($45.99, 750ml, 40% ABV), and Small Batch Whisky ($65.99, 750ml, 46% ABV). All Hatozaki whiskies contain no coloring or chill filtration.
ABOUT HATOZAKI WHISKY
Hatozaki is produced at the Kaikyō Distillery off the southern coast of Japan, where the maritime climate and seaside terroir are ideal conditions for fine whisky maturing. Fourth-generation Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa brings blending heritage, skill and passion to the tradition of whisky-making in Japan. The Hatozaki portfolio includes two permanent expressions, Hatozaki Finest Whisky and Small Batch Whisky, and the Omakase Collection: a line of limited edition expressions exclusive to the US, hand-selected by Yonezawa to create unique cask finishes that have included Mizunara, Sakura and other Japanese oak influence. Hatozaki presents a portfolio of expertly crafted whiskies in the Japanese tradition of craftsmanship that are worthy of sipping, savoring, and enjoying with family and friends.
ABOUT THE KAIKYŌ DISTILLERY
Founded in 2017 by Kimio Yonezawa, the distillery is the culmination of Yonezawa’s keen interest in whisky and embarking on a passionate, decades-long journey of discovery. For many years, he traveled the world studying the time honored techniques of Scotch and American whisky making, then channeled his passion for fine spirits into founding his own distillery in his home country of Japan. The philosophy of the Kaikyō Distillery includes honing past traditions and contributing to the future craft of distilling. In addition to whisky, the Kaikyō Distillery produces 135° East Gin and Akashi-Tai Sake.
ABOUT MARUSSIA BEVERAGES USA
Marussia Beverages USA is a national importer of premium spirits, sake, and wines including brands such as Hatozaki Whiskies, Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs, Torabhaig Scotch Whiskies, Bärenjäger Honey Liqueurs, 135° East Japanese Gin, and Akashi Tai Sakes. Marussia Beverages USA is part of the global group Marussia Beverages, with 14 distribution companies and 16 production sites throughout the world, achieving a turnover of 294 million euros in 2022. In respect for the deep roots of tradition paired with a taste for innovation, Marussia Beverages mission is to create and distribute quality, brands that elevate expectations and provide authentic consumer experiences.
