Welcome to the 19th installment of the Akkeshi “Rikka 立夏” series, an exquisite expression that captures the essence of early summer. Rikka, meaning “the beginning of summer,” paints an idyllic scene: a fresh blue sky over Lake Akkeshi, alive with croaking frogs, dancing carp streamers, and vibrant swallowtail flowers in bloom. This single malt is a liquid ode to that moment.

TASTING NOTES
Nose: Ripe sunniness of peach, apricot, and mandarin, grounded by an earthy whisper of soybean cake.
Taste: Dark chocolate and candied orange confit.
Finish: Black pepper giving way to the delicate sweetness of Japanese hyuganatsu citrus, finally settling into a serene, mineral freshness reminiscent of a beach walk at dawn.