Akashi Sommelier Series No. 1
About Akashi Sommelier Series No. 1
Akashi Sommelier Series No. 1 is a limited Japanese single malt created through a collaboration between Eigashima Distillery and Master Sommelier Ken Fredrickson, co-founder of Tokiwa Imports. Made entirely from malted barley, the whisky incorporates spirit matured in bourbon, sherry, brandy, wine, shochu and new American-oak casks before receiving additional maturation in used non-vintage Pinot Noir casks. Bottled at 90 proof, it offers a fruit-forward profile of peach, cherry, dried apricot, malt, toffee, walnut, honey and warming spice.
Bottle Information
| Whisky Type | Japanese Single Malt Whisky |
|---|---|
| Brand | Akashi |
| Expression | Sommelier Series No. 1 – Wine Cask Matured |
| Series Position | First Sommelier Series edition |
| Distillery | Eigashima Distillery |
| Producer | Eigashima Shuzo Co., Ltd. |
| Country and Region | Japan — Akashi, Hyōgo Prefecture |
| Grain Composition | 100% malted barley |
| Age Statement | No formal age statement |
| Maturation Casks | Bourbon, sherry, brandy, wine, shochu, and new American-oak casks |
| Final Wine Cask | Used non-vintage Pinot Noir casks |
| Proof / ABV | 90 proof / 45% ABV |
Prices
Estimated Current Retail
About $200
Fair Store Price
$175–$225
Secondary Market
Limited
This discontinued first-edition release is rarely available through normal retail channels. Older specialty-retailer listings have appeared around $175 to $200, while some marketplace asking prices are considerably higher. Because dependable auction and private-sale data are limited, there is no established secondary-market range.
Flavor Profile
A fruity and gently spiced single malt opening with orchard fruit, peach, seasoned oak, and baking spices. The palate develops dark fruit, cherry, malt, toffee, walnut loaf, nutmeg, and sweet oak, followed by a medium-length finish of dried apricot, oats, honey, and lingering spice.