Description
The Kuro-Obi (Black Belt) is the most “powerful” and richly textured expression in the Kyoto Miyako Distillery core range.
Crafted for the connoisseur, this blended whisky takes inspiration from bold American traditions while maintaining the refined elegance of Kyoto’s distilling heritage.
Distinguished by its higher 46% ABV and deep charcoal Nishijin-ori silk label, the Kuro-Obi is designed for those who seek a more intense, barrel-driven complexity in their glass.
The Craft: Virgin Oak & Bourbon Influence
The identity of the Black Belt is defined by its unique aging process and the interaction between the spirit and high-quality American wood.
Virgin American Oak: Unlike many blended whiskies that use only seasoned casks, the Kuro-Obi utilizes whiskies aged in virgin American oak barrels, which impart significant structure and deep spice.
Bourbon Cask Finish: The final blend, which includes carefully selected high-quality malt whiskies, is finished in ex-bourbon barrels. This secondary maturation harmonizes the blend and enhances its signature sweetness.
Higher Proof: Bottled at 46% ABV to preserve the concentration of flavor and ensure a robust mouthfeel.
The Appearance: Rich, deep amber with copper highlights.
The Nose: Intense and evocative. A massive bourbon-like aroma of sweet vanilla and caramel, followed by layers of ripe tropical fruit and toasted coconut.
The Palate: Full-bodied and velvety. The entry is sweet with toffee and honey, quickly transitioning into a sophisticated “fruity” complexity. The virgin oak influence provides a firm structural backbone.
The Finish: Exceptional and long. A sweet lingering finish with notes of baking spice, charred oak, and a touch of dark chocolate.
SFWSC (San Francisco World Spirits) Double Gold Medal 2023
ISC (International Spirits Challenge) Silver Medal 2023
IWSC (International Wine & Spirit) 91 Points (Silver) 2023
Producer Profile
The New Standard of Kyoto Whisky
Kyoto Shuzo is a pioneer in the craft spirits world, standing as the first whisky distillery in the historic city of Kyoto. Located in the picturesque Kyotamba region—a highland area known for its extreme temperature shifts and pristine water sources the distillery combines centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship with a modern, innovative approach to blending.
Under the label Kyoto Whisky, the distillery has quickly gained international acclaim for its “scents of Kyoto,” capturing the refined and serene spirit of Japan’s ancient capital in every bottle.
The Terroir: The Gift of Kyotamba
The secret to Kyoto Shuzo’s distinct profile lies in the unique climate of Kyotamba. Situated in a mountainous plateau, the distillery experiences a vast difference in temperature between day and night. These fluctuations accelerate the interaction between the whisky and the oak casks, resulting in a depth of flavor and maturity that belies the whisky’s age.
This process is fueled by the region’s exceptionally soft and pure water, filtered through the surrounding mountains, which provides the silky, elegant mouthfeel that is a hallmark of the Kyoto Whisky style.
The Craft: Artistry in the Blend
Kyoto Shuzo focuses on a philosophy of “Harmony and Balance.” By utilizing a variety of cask types including Bourbon, Sherry, and toasted American Oak—the distillery creates complex, multi-layered spirits.
- Traditional Excellence: The distillery employs a range of maturation techniques to ensure that each expression offers a distinct personality, from rich and smoky to floral and delicate.
- The Nishijin-ori Label: In a tribute to Kyoto’s cultural heritage, the premium “Kyoto Whisky” range features labels made of Nishijin-ori—a traditional woven silk textile from Kyoto. This artisan touch reflects the luxury and meticulous detail found inside the bottle.
- Global Recognition: Despite its young history, Kyoto Shuzo has already secured prestigious awards, including Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
