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Score

Hayashi Koyo Ryukyu, 43%

Price: 50 Issue: Summer 2026 Reviewer: Shane English Category: Japanese Single Grain

Made on the island of Okinawa and fermented using indigenous yeast, Koyo is elegant and floral on the nose, with inviting aromas of rose, white tea, and a hint of lychee. The palate is gentle, delivering flavors of soda crackers, toffee, raisins, and dried apricots. The finish is delicate and short, with orange zest, graham cracker, and more dried fruit fading quickly and cleanly. A solid dram, but too restrained.