Detailed tasting notes:
The first representative of the Sakimoto Shuzo distillery, a classic, non-aged version at 30% ABV. It has the general characteristics of Okinawan spirits, i.e. a rustic character and good aromatic power. However, Yonaguni Ipanshu displays a finesse that is unusual for this category of product: the nose is both spicy and floral, evoking rice powder and exotic fruits. Citrus and fruit notes predominate on the palate, with lychee and exotic fruits. The freshness evolves into more complex spicy and peppery notes.

About the distillery: The Sakimoto Shuzo distillery is located on the small island of Yonaguni, undoubtedly the most remote location from the main Japanese islands. It is situated 2,000 km south-west of Tokyo and only 100 km from Taiwan. In the past, Yonaguni, along with the surrounding islands, was part of the Ryukyu Kingdom, a micro-archipelago that served as a link between Japan and mainland China, an area that was commercially very active at the time. The producer, Mr Sakimoto, is one of the 1,300 inhabitants of this 26 km² piece of land and one of the last three distillers on the island. Since 1927, Sakimoto Shuzo has been producing remarkable awamori using an ancestral production process that involves stills unique to the island, with direct heating. He is also one of the last producers of Hanazake, a very special version of awamori, a 60% alcohol beverage used in funeral ceremonies and whose production is authorised on site as an exception.