Designed as a true tasting experience, the AKASHI Meisei Coffret 2 Japanese Cups 40% showcases Japanese precision and the gentleness of time. From the Eigashima distillery, a pioneer of Japanese whisky since 1919, this blend balances 45% single malt with a selected grain whisky, patiently matured in American oak casks. Its aromatic profile, both bright and restrained, unfolds in an amber robe touched with warm highlights. The set brings together the 50 cl bottle and two Japanese cups to extend the ritual, creating a suspended moment where texture, light and scent converse. Aimed at curious enthusiasts as much as connoisseurs, it solves the perennial gift dilemma by offering a tasting that is approachable, nuanced and deeply memorable.

Blend and maturation

This Japanese whisky is crafted from a blend made up of 45% single malt, which provides density and malty expression, complemented by a grain whisky that delivers smoothness and length. Maturation in American oak casks imparts a vanilla patina and woody accents while preserving the aromatic clarity prized by the distillery. At 40% vol, the balance is designed for a clear reading of the profile, without excessive heat, favouring roundness and precision. Bottled in a 50 cl format, it invites measured sharing moments where each pour remains generous without losing the freshness of the first glasses. True to Eigashima’s standards, care in raw materials and ageing aims for accuracy, consistency and purity of expression, so the oak frame supports, without overpowering, the malt’s signature.

Tasting notes

• Colour: Clear amber with hints of warmed honey, threaded with coppery highlights that catch the light. The measured viscosity suggests a supple texture. In the Japanese cup, the colour deepens and enhances a feeling of muted warmth, like a delicate varnish on polished wood.
• Nose: First impression of vanilla and brown sugar, soon followed by gentle spices, a hint of biscuit and a whisper of stone fruit. The influence of American oak is felt in a toasted register, never overpowering. With airing, more woody notes emerge, with a touch of black tea and a nuance of blond caramel, inviting a slow, attentive breath.
• Palate: Soft attack, satiny texture that coats the palate without heaviness. The mid-palate unfolds a spicy and woody palette, lifted by a thread of vanilla. The structure stretches into a oak finish, subtly toasted, which prolongs the sensation of warmth and comfort. Overall it remains upright, precise, never heady, with a return of gentle spices on the second breath.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve at room temperature, around 16 to 18°C, in the Japanese cups provided to magnify the aromatic expression. A micro-splash of water can be considered to open the aromas without breaking the structure. Avoid ice if you wish to preserve the full reading of the spices and vanilla. Allow the whisky a few minutes of airing in the glass, while the warmth of the hand wakes the woody notes and malty sweetness. Store the bottle upright, away from light and temperature fluctuations, to preserve its aromatic brightness until the last pour.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: edamame, roasted almonds, salmon marinated in mild soy sauce.
• Starters: tuna sashimi, light beef tataki, scallop carpaccio with sesame.
• Main courses: glazed yakitori, caramelised pork, herb-roasted poultry with root vegetables.
• Cheeses: young comté, semi-aged gouda, slightly fruity tomme.
• Desserts: crème caramel, pecan tart, dark chocolate with cocoa nibs.

Tasting occasions

The AKASHI Meisei makes an appearance in moments when conversation slows and every detail matters, from the evening light to the precise gesture that pours the amber. The set, with its two cups, immediately sets the mood for a chosen tête-à-tête, between contemplation and attentive sharing.

• To celebrate a thoughtful gift to give, imbued with Japanese culture and hospitality.
• During an introductory tasting where one discovers the gentleness of American oak.
• As companion to a cosy after-dinner, cradled by a jazz playlist and the clarity of a refined glass.

Specifications

• Name: AKASHI Meisei Coffret 2 Japanese Cups 40%
• Origin: Japan, Eigashima distillery (White Oak)
• Type: Japanese blended whisky
• Blend: 45% single malt and grain whisky
• Alcohol content: 40% vol
• Maturation: American oak casks
• Volume: 50 cl
• Presentation: set with 2 Japanese cups
• Colour: warm amber
• Reference: CAV-WHIS-AKASHI-MEÏSEI-2-JAPANESE