Kentucky Owl master blender John Rhea and Nagahama Distillery master blender Yusuke Yahisa worked together on the blend. Rhea firstly selected four different formulations before sending the samples to Japan. Yahisa then created a variety of blends from these formulations, developing the one most reflective of his Japanese whisky style.
The word “Takumi” translates to “master” in Japanese, with the name said to celebrate the art of modern whisky blending.
On the collaboration, Rhea said: “This collaboration encompasses not just the art of blending, but the flavors and taste profiles that both countries are famous for in their whiskeys. The Takumi Edition provides bourbon lovers insight into the flavor profiles sought after by a Japanese whisky blender. As someone who has worked in the industry for several decades now, it was exciting for me to work with a rising star in whisky with a unique perspective.”
The producer has described the expression as having aromas of light rye bread with sweet caramel richness. The palete is described as having notes of buttery rye bread, with a flavorful and long lasting finish .
The Takumi Edition Bourbon is a blend of 4-, 5-, 6- and 13-year old Kentucky straight bourbons.
Yahisa added: “I was very excited to have the opportunity to work with John Rhea on this unique project. Bourbon is a whiskey that I admire, and it was an honor to be able to partner with John and create a new and unique blend of Kentucky Owl together.”
The MSRP for the Takami Edition will be $150 per 750ml. Availability will begin from October through retailers across the brand’s national distributors.