Barrel Bourbon Company’s Mizunara Cask Finish represents their exploration into Japanese oak finishing. Part of their Cask Finishing Series, this expression showcases how this rare wood type can influence their carefully selected bourbon. Three separate tastings help unpack the complexity of this unique finish.

Nose: Light red fruit, small oak, slight spice

Palate: Warming, oily, cinnamon notes

Finish: Canned peaches, slight effervescence

Nose: Sourdough (from distance), cinnamon apple slice, savory butterscotch

Palate: Spice build in mid-palate

Finish: White peppercorn

Nose: Sweet syrup, spiky ethanol, barrel funk

Palate: Very soft, dry, sweet wine finish, floral mid-palate

Finish: Soft, very slight dryness

Barrel’s Mizunara finish offers an intriguing twist on their bourbon, creating a unique expression that should interest both Japanese whiskey enthusiasts and bourbon drinkers looking to explore finished whiskeys. The varying flavor profiles across tastings suggest a complex pour that rewards repeated exploration.