Akashi Ume Plum Whisky

Eigashima Shuzo brings us something decidedly different with Akashi Ume Plum Whisky. They take their flagship blended whisky and steep freshly harvested Japanese ume plums alongside rock sugar right in the liquid. Then, the entire batch rests in oak barrels for up to twelve months. It works beautifully. The process coaxes out a stark contrast between the savory malt backbone and the vivid, tart bite of the stone fruit.

At 61 proof, it carries enough heft to stand up in a glass while remaining exceptionally approachable. Sip it neat to dissect the specific fruit flavors. Alternatively, pour it tall with soda water for a highball that dominates a warm afternoon.

• Macerated with fresh Japanese ume plums and rock sugar
• Aged 6 to 12 months in oak barrels
• Bottled at a versatile 61 proof (30.5% ABV)