
Size: 750ML
Proof: 100
Availability: Limited
Product Description:
Black Arts Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Mizunara Oak Staves
Black Arts Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Mizunara Oak Staves is a small-batch bourbon that marries time-honored Kentucky distilling with a touch of Japanese oak artistry . This no-age-statement (NAS) expression is a limited-edition release that bridges American bourbon tradition with the refined elegance of rare Mizunara oak . Mizunara – a coveted Japanese oak – imbues the whiskey with exotic notes of spice, incense, and rich wood tones, elevating the bourbon to an entirely new dimension . The result is a bourbon that delivers a multi-layered sensory experience, where classic caramel sweetness meets Eastern complexity in every sip.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Soft sandalwood and an aromatic incense-like sweetness greet you on the nose . These exotic Mizunara notes are complemented by classic bourbon aromas of butterscotch, vanilla custard, and toasted oak, along with a hint of dried fruit in the background . A subtle undercurrent of toasted coconut and gentle rye spice adds further intrigue as you inhale .
- Palate: Rich and creamy in texture, this bourbon unfolds in indulgent layers. Up front are dessert-like flavors reminiscent of snickerdoodle cookies and gingerbread spice, brightened by a touch of zesty lemon zest . As the sip develops, notes of brown butter and freshly baked bread rolls emerge, intertwined with cardamom and nutmeg for an exotic spice kick . Mid-palate hints of dark cherry and creamy vanilla join the mix, all wrapped in a toasted oak framework that adds depth to each flavorful wave .
- Finish: The finish is luxuriously long, warm, and satisfying. Lingering baking spices (nutmeg with a touch of cinnamon) continue to dance on the palate, joined by subtle toasted oak and a silky thread of vanilla sweetness . As it slowly fades, delicate notes of leather and toffee emerge alongside a whisper of stewed dark fruits . Thanks to the Mizunara influence, even the final moments are beautifully aromatic and balanced, with a gentle dry oak tannin that invites you back for another sip .
Why It’s Exceptional
- Mizunara Oak Influence: Finished with Mizunara oak staves sourced from Japan – often hailed as the “holy grail” of whiskey woods . This elusive oak is notoriously difficult to work with, but it rewards patience by imparting distinctive notes of sandalwood, exotic spice, and an incense-like depth of flavor not found in ordinary bourbon.
- Small-Batch Craftsmanship: Produced in ultra-small batches of roughly 600–750 bottles each, ensuring every release receives meticulous attention to detail . With no official age statement on the bottle, this Kentucky straight bourbon is guaranteed at least four years old by law and is bottled only when its flavor peaks rather than at a predetermined age. This quality-over-quantity approach means each batch is a true expression of craftsmanship and flavor.
- Toasted Stave Finish: Instead of using a full Mizunara oak barrel, Black Arts uses toasted Mizunara oak staves inserted into the mature bourbon during finishing . Toasting (rather than charring) the staves draws out nuanced oak oils and spice, enhancing subtle complexities without overpowering the bourbon’s original character . This innovative finishing technique perfectly integrates the oak’s influence for maximum depth and balance.
- East-Meets-West Fusion: Combines Kentucky bourbon’s bold character with Japanese oak’s refined elegance for a truly elevated sipping experience . This East-meets-West harmony marries classic bourbon richness (vanilla, oak, and caramel sweetness) with the fragrant subtleties of Mizunara, yielding a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that stands out in the bourbon world.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this limited-edition Mizunara oak bourbon. This small-batch release represents a transcendent union of time-honored bourbon tradition and Japanese oak artistry – a must-try for whiskey connoisseurs and bourbon lovers alike.