Saburomaru III The Empress 2020-2023

Saburomaru III The Empress (2020-2023) – Heavily Peated

A bold and commanding release from Wakatsuru Shuzo’s Saburomaru Distillery, The Empress is the third chapter in the distillery’s growing legacy. Distilled between 2020 and 2023, this expression is a powerful showcase of Japan’s rare heavily peated whisky style, embodying intensity, complexity, and craftsmanship in every sip.

Matured with meticulous care, The Empress is a whisky that commands attention—layered with smoke, depth, and a refined balance that speaks to the innovation of one of Japan’s most exciting emerging distilleries.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Waves of smoldering peat smoke intertwined with charred oak, dark cocoa, and hints of iodine. Subtle layers of citrus peel and salted caramel emerge beneath the bold smokiness.

Palate: Rich and mouth-coating, with an intense burst of earthy peat, black pepper, and roasted espresso beans. Dark honey and dried fruit bring a touch of sweetness, tempering the robust smokiness.

Finish: Long and lingering, with deep campfire embers, oak spice, and a whisper of maritime salinity, leaving a lasting impression of refined intensity.

Bottled at 48% ABV and presented in a 70cl format, Saburomaru III The Empress captures the bold evolution of Japanese whisky with its distinctive heavily peated profile.