‘World’s first’ brandy in mizunara cask launches

French producer Maison Monteru has unveiled what is thought to be the first brandy aged in Japanese mizunara oak cask.

Monteru Brandy Mizunara is the ‘world’s first’ brandy aged in Japanese mizunara oak cask

Bottled at 43% abv, Monteru Brandy Mizunara is made from folle blanche grapes – 90% from 2014 and 10% from 2012.

It was initially matured in new and used French limousine oak casks before being transferred to a virgin mizunara oak cask for about 12 months.

According to the producer, the new expression is the “first” French spirit crafted using an authentic mizunara oak cask made in Japan.

Unveiled at trade show Vinexpo Bordeaux last month, Monteru Brandy Mizunara has “fresh and vibrant “ notes on the nose, due to the use of folle blanche. On the palate, there are “elegant aromas of spices”, particularly cinnamon with a “hint of clove”, and a creamy finish.

“We are very proud to offer a unique experience to the growing niche market of luxury brandies, which is not only looking for innovations, but also willing to uncompromise genuine products” said Pierre Naud, Monteru’s international sales manager.

Last year, Monteru French brandy released three cask finishes in ex-Sherry, ex-sauternes and ex-Bourbon casks.

A “confidential number” of Monteru Brandy Mizunara will be released in autumn 2017 through a network of spirit collectors.