Whisky Review: Tenjaku Japanese Whisky at 40 proof — at $40, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
This liquid is a pale golden amber that coats the glass and forms a ridge of fine tears before becoming broad legs. Aromas of raw grain and old wood come through first, with something dark and funky underneath amber perfume and burnt sugar. in the winemaking and whisky industries since the 1990s. He poignantly put his dedication into words: Be generous with time for your craft. For Tenjaku Japanese Whisky, Watanabe sourced unprocessed whisky and double pot-distilled the liquid before aging it in Kentucky bourbon barrels. He then created the final blend from three-year, five-year, and six-year whiskies. In addition to the blended whiskey, Tenjaku are also producing a pure malt whisky. Tenjaku Japanese Whisky (image via Cindy Caparelli/Whiskeyful) Tasting Notes: Tenjaku Japanese Whisky Vital Stats: Tenjaku Japanese Whisky is 40 proof, made from 86% corn and 14% barley and aged three years in bourbon barrels. Find a 750mL bottle for $40 in select US markets. Appearance: This liquid is a pale golden amber that coats the glass and forms a ridge of fine tears before becoming broad legs. Nose: Aromas of raw grain and old wood come through first, with something dark and funky underneath amber perfume and burnt sugar. Palate: On the palate, this whisky has a smooth and subtle gentle cereal sweetness. Caramel tones predominate, with leather and toasted rice coming through on the mid palate. An herbal bitterness hits on the back of the tongue.
Palate
This is a pleasant, balanced sipper. The pure and clear flavor goals of the brand are well covered. Dare I say it’s a peaceful whisky? The bourbon barreling gives it just enough richness to keep it interesting. At this price point it looks like a good buy for fans of the Japanese style.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Review: Tenjaku Japanese Whisky is a perfectly respectable whiskey that does what it sets out to do. At $40, the value is reasonable — it will not blow your mind, but it will not disappoint you either. A reliable choice.
