Lead Bartender Yoshitomo Fujikawa - The World of Whisky

Scotch Whisky

Scotch whisky is a variety of whisky originating in Scotland, a nation with almost the same area as that of Hokkaido. In 1994, Scotch whisky celebrated its 500th anniversary since the first batch was distilled in 1494. 1494 marks the first official recording of the first known batch of Scotch whisky however, it is rumoured to have been around since the 12th Century although at this time, it was known as Uisge Beatha (The water of life).

The most common varieties of Scotch whisky are the blended varieties such as Chivas Regal and Ballantines however the most important element in the making of good blended whisky is that it is made in the same distillery. Varieties that are made in a single distillery are referred to as a single malt whisky and have a distinct and full flavor.

The making of a good single malt whisky is said to be 40% manufacturing and 60% the cask, with particular importance placed upon the aging of the whisky in the barrel. The amber coloration of a usually clear whisky is said to be the work of the aging in the cask. These casks are manufactured from oak. Most people associate oak with the acorn. The whisky is laid to rest in the cask for periods of 10 years anywhere up to 30 years. The spirit is allowed to breathe slowly several times a year and the percentage lost to evaporation each year is known as the Angle's Share while at the same time, the spirit is allowed to absorb the pure air of Scotland. Time passes slowly and silently to give birth to a profound and full-flavored whisky.

In this manner, whisky undergoes significant change during the aging process and even with the technology available today, it is not yet possible to ascertain whether the end product will turn out to be an aromatic and full-flavored whisky. It is truly a mysterious spirit.

Whisky is loved by people all around the world and it can only be made through a combination of those that have preserved the traditional brewing methods, the purest of water, the blessing of our mother earth, and a grand and cold natural environment. Whisky has stood the test of time, take up a glass and let the time roll by.

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY

- History -
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) was founded in 1983 in Leith, Edinburgh's bustling old sea port. The society began when a group of old malt enthusiasts clubbed together to purchase a cask from a distillery. The quality of the whisky was superb and in the blink of an eye, syndicates formed leading finally to the society's establishment. The idea behind the founding of the society was to share the love for the fantastic spirit that is whisky, spread awareness, enjoy the full-flavored taste and generally have a good time.

- The Society's Pursuit of Excellence -
Every cask chosen for bottling has been scrutinized, with the cooperation of distilleries all over Scotland, by the society's tasting panel. Bottling is undertaken only from casks that have been inspected and without the addition of water or chill filtering. This is due to the policy the society has held strong to since its foundation of wanting to enjoy the taste of pure aged malt whisky. A major characteristic of the SMWS bottles is that they all carry the same label and do not list the name of the distillery. All that is contained on the label is a large SMWS logo mark, the year it was distilled, how long it was aged, the alcohol percentage, a distiller's code and a cask number. The idea behind omitting the name of the distillery from the label is to have enthusiasts enjoy whisky without bias. Which distillery the whisky has originated from however, is listed in the tasting notes which describe the aromas and taste. It is up to the customer to use the tasting notes, the years it was aged, alcohol percentage and other hints to the origin of the distiller to discern their preferred drop.

- Recommended by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society -
Bar The Fifteen's comes recommended by the SMWS as a bar of excellent quality. Enjoy superb quality whisky in a tranquil and relaxed environment.

SMWS Information
http://www.whisk-e.co.jp/smws/ (In Japanese Only)

AGING MALT in the BARREL

- A Little Cask all the Way From Scotland -
Utilizing only the finest quality oak, the 10 litre barrel is of superior quality and has been crafted to meet authentic conditions. The Whisky contained within (Lagavulin) ages with every passing day and allows you to enjoy in its freshest form, the rich and full aroma and flavours, impossible to experience out of the bottle where the whisky ceases to mature. Treat yourself to the new world of oak matured whisky for an experience equivalent to that of drinking the real thing straight from the barrels of the maturing rooms on Islay Island in Scotland. It is a symbol of status for prominent figures and upper class gentry to own their own barrel of brandy or whisky and leave them to mature in cellars around the world. The Fifteen's can also provide you with the opportunity to own your own barrel, the dream of anyone whisky enthusiast.