Togouchi joins Mangrove’s world whisky portfolio
Sakurao-owned Japanese whisky brand Togouchi has partnered with distributor Mangrove Global in the UK.
Mangrove takes over the brand’s UK distribution from Amber Beverage Group.
Mangrove’s diverse and extensive portfolio of world whiskies is led by curator Stephanie Holt, who was recently joined by brand ambassador Kealan Lafferty.
Togouchi’s range of premium blended and single malt whiskies is made entirely in Japan and features experimental cask finishes.
Nick Gillett, managing director of Mangrove Global, commented: “The precise distilling practised at the Sakurao Distillery is very typical of Japanese whisky traditions, and this range of whiskies is a stellar example of how precision gives way to the most delicious liquids.
“The unique but consistent nature of the tunnel ageing beautifully shows how the surrounding environment shapes the taste and quality of a spirit.
“This addition to our portfolio reinforces our commitment to curating a world-leading range of world whiskies that all can enjoy.”
Mangrove will distribute five Togouchi expressions: a premium blended whisky, nine- and 15-year-old blends, a single malt, and a sake cask-finished whisky.
The latter was initially aged in Bourbon barrels and finished for three months in sake casks, resulting in flavours of toasted barley, jasmine, orange peel, and flapjack with a buttery and lightly spiced finish. The expression is offered exclusively for independent retail.
The range’s flagship SKU, Togouchi Premium Blended Whisky, combines 100% unmalted barley grain whisky and malt whisky, displaying notes of marzipan, plum and walnuts.
All Togouchi whiskies are distilled predominantly from local barley and produced at the Sakurao distillery just outside Hiroshima.
The whiskies are aged in a unique warehouse in an old railway tunnel in the heart of the Osorakan Mountain.
The cool temperature of 14 degrees and 80% humidity results in minimal flavour transfer from the casks while allowing sufficient oxygen interaction to mellow the liquid’s flavour.
Togouchi joins Akashi and Yamazakura in Mangrove’s portfolio of Japanese whiskies.
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