One of the first Bourbons finished in Mizunara Shochu Casks, released in a limited edition of 2,000 bottles
World Whiskey Society (WWS), known for scouring the globe to create the world’s most interesting whiskeys, is highlighting its 108-Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished In Japanese Mizunara Shochu Barrels. Limited to only 2,000 bottles globally, this collectable expression, dubbed the Samurai Edition, represents one of the first known bourbon releases finished in this rare and distinctive cask style.
“We’re proud of this extraordinary, virtually unrepeatable bourbon finished in Japanese Mizunara Shochu casks,” says Alex Kogan, CEO of World Whiskey Society. “With only 2,000 bottles available worldwide, this expression reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and creating rare, world-class whiskey experiences that collectors and connoisseurs won’t find anywhere else.”
After maturing in newly charred American oak, this bourbon is finished in rare Japanese Mizunara oak casks previously used to age Shochu, adding remarkable complexity and distinctive flavour to the final spirit. With a mash bill of 75 per cent corn, 13 per cent rye, and 12 per cent malted barley, the bourbon originates from Bardstown Bourbon Company—one of the most technologically advanced distilleries in the United States.
As an exceptionally rare and collectable release, the Samurai Edition features a striking Samurai helmet topper and delivers a smooth, sweet, and sophisticated whiskey with robust, hard-hitting heat. A testament to WWS’s cask finishing expertise, this unique expression stands as one of the first—and few—Mizunara Shochu cask-finished bourbons on the market.
