Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/723381
september 2016 / the tasting panel / 95 Kikori Japanese Whiskey (SRP $50) is an innovative spirit distilled entirely from high-grade rice grown in the rich, volcanic soil of Kumamoto, located on Japan's southernmost island of Kyushu. No doubt consumers will find the whiskey to be a rare and unexpected pleasure. Upon exiting the still, the whiskey is transferred to American white oak barrels, re- purposed French Limousin oak and Sherry casks for up to ten years. Kikori is a skillful blend of whiskeys of different ages and wood finishes. It is bottled at 41% ABV (82 proof). The new whiskey breaks from convention and has a unique personality that defies typecasting. Kikori has a perfectly clear, pale gold appearance, a satiny, lightweight body and a delicate and persistent bou- quet of caramel, tropical fruit, spice and vanilla with prominent Sherry notes. It's a delicate yet long-lasting set of aromas. The whiskey raises no esophageal burn as it presents the flavors of melon, cinnamon, toffee, anise and toasted oak. Its lingering finish is saturated with fruit and baking spice. According to brand owner Ann Soh Woods, "Kikori is that special spirit that is both accessible and versatile. It is excellent served neat, but can also be used in many cocktail applications. E.P.&L.P. Restaurant in West Hollywood features it in a deli- cious Old Fashioned, and Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour in Phoenix has paired it with yuzu marmalade and pink peppercorn honey syrup to make a unique and flavorful cocktail." Savvy mixologists will have a field day making drinks with Kikori Japanese Whiskey. Case in point is The Modernist in San Francisco, a private social club designed for adults to expand their personal and professional network. The club keeps their members engaged with classy, light fare and cutting-edge cocktails. Bar host Carlo Splendorini makes sure the members are well satisfied: "We actively promote sev- eral Kikori drinks. The most popular is the Nob Hill, a delicious cocktail perfectly suited for our members." Kikori is a game-changer. A whiskey as easily sipped neat as it is served in the cocktail of your dreams. Changing the Game with KIKORI JAPANESE WHISKY PHOTO: HARDY WILSON The Modernist ◗ 2 oz. Kikori Japanese Whiskey ◗ ½ oz. house-made salted caramel liqueur ◗ 1–2 dashes Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters ◗ Orange infused-extra virgin olive oil Express the extra virgin olive oil-infused orange peel over the glass. Pour ingredients into iced mixing glass, shake vigorously and strain into chilled cocktail glass. SOH SPIRITS INTL. The team from The Modernist in San Francisco (left to right): Adam Reaume, Luis Padilla, Abby Martinie, Carlo Splendorini, Josue Gongora and Chris Chour.