Exclusive to the U.S., the Oldest Hatozaki Release to Date Showcases Master Distiller Kimio Yonezawa’s Craft and Innovation
NEW YORK, NY (October 27, 2025) – Hatozaki Whisky proudly unveils the fourth edition in its acclaimed “Omakase” Series — the Hatozaki Omakase Small Batch 15 Year Old Mizunara Cask Finish, a remarkable limited release and the oldest age statement from the Kaikyō Distillery to date.
Limited to fewer than 3,000 individually numbered bottles and available exclusively in the U.S., this small-batch whisky is now available for a suggested retail price of $149.99 (750ml) and bottled at 46% ABV.
Blended and bottled at the Kaikyō Distillery on the shores of Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, the new expression reflects the artistry and innovation of 4th Generation Master Distiller and Blender Kimio Yonezawa.
“I am honored to introduce our oldest age statement whisky yet, the Small Batch 15 Year Old, and the newest edition of our Omakase Collection in the U.S. market,” said Kimio Yonezawa. “The Omakase Collection is special as it allows us to show our creativity and innovation capabilities. Omakase is not just a whisky, it’s a quiet promise – to surprise, to delight, and to honor the moment.”
A Masterful Expression of Japanese Craftsmanship
Rooted in the Japanese culinary tradition of omakase—meaning “chef’s choice”—the collection celebrates trust in the maker’s artistry. Each “Omakase” release invites whisky enthusiasts to experience Yonezawa’s interpretation of modern Japanese whisky through unique cask finishes and creative aging techniques.
The Hatozaki Omakase Small Batch 15 Year Old Mizunara Cask Finish begins with a blend of select malt whiskies aged for 12 years in new charred oak barrels before spending three years finishing in rare Mizunara casks sourced from the forests of Hokkaido, Japan. The result is a balanced and refined whisky that reflects both time-honored Japanese craftsmanship and Yonezawa’s innovative approach to flavor development.
TASTING NOTES: Hatozaki Omakase Small Batch 15 Year Old Mizunara Cask Finish
- Aroma: Rich sandalwood, vanilla bean, and caramelized fruit
- Palate: Layers of baking spice, soft smoke, and gentle oak influence
- Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a delicate sweetness and refined texture
A Legacy of Excellence
This 15-Year-Old edition joins the first three “Omakase” releases—Mizunara Cask, 8 Year Old Pure Malt, and Omakase Rye—as well as Hatozaki’s celebrated core range:
- Hatozaki Triple Cask (46% ABV, $74.99) – A blend of whiskies aged in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and umeshu plum liqueur casks.
- Hatozaki Finest Whisky (40% ABV, $45.99) – A smooth, balanced blend of malt whiskies aged up to 12 years.
- Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky (46% ABV, $65.99) – 100% malt whisky aged in bourbon, sherry, and Mizunara oak.
“The Omakase Collection embodies the Japanese spirit of craftsmanship, where patience, intuition, and balance meet,” said Yonezawa. “Every cask tells a story—and this one, aged for 15 years, is our most mature and expressive yet.”
ABOUT HATOZAKI WHISKY
Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, Hatozaki Whisky draws inspiration from the Hatozaki Lighthouse, built in 1657, a symbol of guidance and endurance. Under the direction of Master Distiller Kimio Yonezawa, a fourth-generation distiller whose family has been crafting spirits since 1917, Hatozaki represents the meeting point between Japanese tradition and global whisky innovation.
Hatozaki’s whiskies are known for their balance, subtlety, and approachability, appealing to both connoisseurs and newcomers to Japanese whisky. The distillery’s portfolio includes the core range and limited “Omakase” editions, each emphasizing craftsmanship and creativity.
ABOUT THE KAIKYŌ DISTILLERY
The Kaikyō Distillery continues the Yonezawa family’s century-long legacy of distillation. Founded in Akashi, Japan, the distillery is home to Hatozaki Whisky, 135°East Japanese Gin, and Akashi-Tai Sake. Yonezawa’s vision for Kaikyō centers on innovation, sustainability, and a deep respect for Japan’s natural environment.
ABOUT MARUSSIA BEVERAGES USA
Marussia Beverages USA imports and markets premium spirits, sake, and wines including Hatozaki Whiskies, Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs, Torabhaig Scotch Whiskies, Bärenjäger Honey Liqueurs, and 135° East Japanese Gin. The company is part of the global Marussia Beverages Group, with 14 distribution companies and 16 production sites worldwide.
Availability
Hatozaki Omakase Small Batch 15 Year Old Mizunara Cask Finish is available now at select U.S. retailers and fine spirits shops nationwide. For more information, visit HatozakiWhisky.com or follow @HatozakiWhisky on social media.
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