Hakata Whiskey 16yr Sherry Cask 750ml

Hakata 16-Year Sherry Cask – Japanese Whisky

Age

Aged for 16 years, allowing deep integration of sherry cask influence and long, slow development of rich, layered character.

Distillery

Crafted by Hikari Distillery, located in Fukuoka, Japan. With roots in traditional fermentation methods, the distillery employs both classic and regional Japanese techniques, including partial koji fermentation, to bring a unique dimension to its whiskies.

Region

Southern Japan — a climate marked by hot summers and cool winters that accelerates cask interaction and imparts unique depth and texture to long-aged spirits.

Mash Bill & Technique

Made from 100% malted barley, with a portion of the fermentation carried out using koji, enhancing umami tones and creating a savory edge. Double distilled and matured slowly for over a decade and a half.

Cask Composition

Fully matured in sherry casks, which contribute rich fruit, nut, and spice notes. The extended aging allows the spirit to absorb deep layers of complexity while retaining a refined, smooth structure.

ABV / Proof

Bottled at 42% ABV (84 proof) — a deliberate balance of strength and drinkability, maintaining structure while highlighting delicate layers of aroma and flavor.

Description

Hakata 16-Year Sherry Cask is a mature and expressive Japanese whisky that captures the harmony of time, tradition, and cask influence. Long aging in sherry casks lends the whisky a rich, dark-fruit core, accented by roasted nuts, chocolate, spice, and a touch of dry oak. The addition of koji fermentation adds a faintly savory complexity that sets this apart from traditional malt whiskies, offering both elegance and depth.

Tasting Notes

Appearance

Deep amber with copper highlights and slow, rolling legs.

Aroma

Bold notes of dried cherry, orange peel, walnut, cocoa, and subtle umami. Underlying hints of toasted wood, clove, and dark honey.

Palate

Silky and layered: dark fruit compote, nutmeg, ginger, chestnut, and bittersweet chocolate. A savory edge emerges mid-palate, offering balance to the sweetness and spice.

Finish

Long and warming: espresso, fig jam, roasted almond, and lingering sherry dryness with a refined, leathery fade.

Accolades & Appeal

• Appeals to lovers of long-aged sherry cask whiskies

• Celebrated for its rare combination of umami depth and sweet complexity

• A standout in Japanese whisky for those seeking both tradition and innovation

Summary

Hakata 16-Year Sherry Cask is a sophisticated Japanese whisky, showcasing the synergy between time, sherry maturation, and regional technique. With 16 years in cask and a base of malted barley partially fermented with koji, it offers a rich, savory-sweet flavor profile at 42% ABV — refined, complex, and deeply satisfying.