Whisky Names Explained: Nobushi

Hello Monday! A new week has begun and what's more fulfilling than broadening your horizons?! We've got a new Whisky Names Explained for you today with a focus on a Japanese whisky: Nobushi. Where does this name come from?

If you've ever held a bottle of Japanese whisky Nobushi in your hands, you cannot possibly overlook the artwork. Two large eyes stare at you, almost screaming to open the whisky bottle. But those who look and think deeper may have questioned who exactly are depicted on the cardboard box and bottle. Surprising as it may sound, it's an image of a warrior.

Actually, Nobushi is rather heroic liquor. Nobushi were elegant yet aggressive fighters. In the past, they were the warriors who protected Japanese villages - hence, the elegance. Nobushi translates literally to 'spirits of honor,' and of course, that adds a classy touch to a whisky.

It's also a bottle that really stands out. Did you know that if you purchase several of these bottles and place the boxes side by side, a larger image is formed? Three Nobushi whiskies reveal the whole warrior, completing the picture. The right side of the face with the right eye is on the front, the left eye is on the left side, and the smallest part of the face is at the back of the box.

We've previously written a review of Nobushi whisky. In it, we wrote the following:

'The amber-colored Nobushi whisky has an initial sweet and caramelly scent, but if you smell deeper, you catch a subtle spicy hint. The golden drink might not offer much depth in this regard, and this trait extends to its flavor. On the palate, Nobushi behaves like a well-behaved kid who diligently completes his tasks in class, but never looks for a thrill or dares to be naughty.'