In an unprecedented blend of two time-honoured traditions, Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky, has revealed the latest addition to their renowned Grand Series – the Grand Yozakura. A unique concoction that weaves together the distinct essences of Scotland and Japan, it’s the first Single Malt Scotch Whisky to be finished in rare Japanese ex-Awamori casks. With this audacious innovation, Glenfiddich sets the gold standard in the sphere of great single malts, eliciting profound excitement among whisky connoisseurs across the globe.

Grand Yozakura is a result of meticulously maturing a 29-Year-Old Whisky in the historic Glenfiddich Distillery, nestled in Dufftown, before granting it an exceptional finish in Awamori casks, a technique unknown to the whisky-making world until now. Visit the Glenfiddich Distillery to dive deep into the genesis of this pioneering fusion.

Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura Carton

Awamori, a spirit derived from long-grain Indica rice, is a quintessential piece of Japanese heritage with a brewing technique remaining unaltered for over five centuries. Traditionally stored in clay pots and then matured in oak casks, the spirit’s rarity is emphasized because only a fraction gets the privilege of oak maturation. These rare oak casks lend the Grand Yozakura its unique finish, making it a one-of-a-kind addition to the Grand Series.

The name Grand Yozakura pays homage to the transient beauty of nature, specifically the Japanese tradition of Hanami, or the ‘cherry blossom festival.’ Yozakura, or ‘night sakura,’ refers to the enchanting spectacle of cherry blossoms under the ethereal moonlight, a brief, fleeting moment, much like the unique experience this whisky offers.

“We saw an opportunity to push the boundaries when the chance arose to acquire rare ex-Awamori casks,” says Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman. “Awamori is much like whisky, with a diverse range of flavours. The six-month finish in ex-Awamori Casks complements the smooth Glenfiddich taste profile, accentuating the mouthfeel characters and zingy herbal notes unlike any in the series or anything I have tasted.”

Glenfiddich Global Brand Director Claudia Falcone further accentuated the significance of this addition to the Grand Series. “Grand Yozakura is the most ground-breaking expression so far,” she said. “Bringing together two scarce components accentuates the anticipation and sense of occasion, paying homage to the brand’s innovative nature when creating dynamic whiskies of the highest quality.”

The packaging of the Grand Yozakura continues to narrate this fusion of cultures. Adorned with a signature illustration by the celebrated Japanese artist June, it incorporates elements of Japanese culture and landscapes. Along with a specially designed outer and a bespoke topper, each package presents a traditional poem, reinforcing the amalgamation of Scottish and Japanese traditions.

Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura first appeared at Singapore’s Changi airport, the first in Asia-Pacific to introduce this innovative blend. Travellers there can immerse themselves in an interactive brand experience through Oculus VR headsets. Priced at approximately SGD$2,430.00 (USD$2,700), Grand Yozakura is poised to deliver a transcendent tasting experience to whisky enthusiasts worldwide. Find out more about the launch at Changi Airport.

Grand Yozakura is a novel entry to the Grand Series, following the distinguished lineage of the Glenfiddich Grand Cru, Glenfiddich Gran Reserva, Grande Couronne, and Gran Cortes. This release further asserts Glenfiddich’s pioneering spirit and unceasing quest for innovation in the whisky world, fortifying its position as The World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Explore the Grand Series to discover more of Glenfiddich’s exceptional whiskies.

Written by: Christine Nguyen

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