YOKAI 8 Years Old is a straight bourbon whiskey from Kentucky's Old Louisville Whiskey Co., bottled at cask strength 133 proof (66.5% ABV) after eight years of patient aging. This Japanese-themed bourbon marries traditional Kentucky distilling with mystical Eastern aesthetics, creating a spirit that bridges worlds—where bourbon tradition meets the enigmatic spirit of yokai folklore.
Old Louisville Whiskey Co. crafts this distinctive bourbon in the heart of Kentucky, where limestone-filtered water and time-honored techniques create the foundation for exceptional whiskey. The Japanese-inspired branding reflects a philosophy of patience and reverence for the aging process, embodying the mysterious beauty found in both Kentucky rickhouses and ancient Japanese storytelling.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Charred oak intensity, vanilla bean, dark caramel, leather-bound books, hints of spiced tobacco
- Palate: Full-bodied heat, butterscotch, roasted nuts, black pepper, dried fruits, maple syrup richness
- Finish: Long and warming with lingering oak tannins, cinnamon spice, and sweet bourbon heat
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 66.5% (133 Proof) |
| Age Statement | 8 Years Old |
| Distillery | Old Louisville Whiskey Co. LLC |
| Region | Kentucky |
| Country | United States |
Perfect For
- Neat Sipping: Best appreciated straight to experience its full cask-strength character and complexity
- Whiskey Connoisseurs: Collectors who appreciate unique branding and high-proof Kentucky bourbon
- Special Occasions: Memorable celebrations where bold flavors and distinctive presentation matter
- Gift Giving: Unique Japanese-themed packaging makes it stand out for bourbon enthusiasts
Frequently Asked Questions
What does YOKAI 8 Years Old taste like?
YOKAI 8 Years Old delivers intense, full-bodied bourbon flavors with prominent oak, vanilla, and caramel notes balanced by warm spices and a long, heating finish. The cask strength bottling amplifies the classic Kentucky bourbon profile with remarkable depth and complexity.
Should I drink YOKAI bourbon neat or with water?
This high-proof bourbon is best enjoyed neat first to appreciate its full intensity, then experiment with a few drops of water to open up additional flavors. The 133 proof allows for significant dilution while maintaining character.
Is YOKAI 8 Years Old good value for an 8-year bourbon?
YOKAI offers solid value as an 8-year-old cask strength bourbon from Kentucky, combining age statement authenticity with unique Japanese-inspired presentation. The high proof and extended aging justify its premium positioning among craft bourbons.
What makes YOKAI bourbon different from other Kentucky whiskeys?
YOKAI distinguishes itself through Japanese-themed branding and mystical aesthetic while maintaining traditional Kentucky bourbon production methods. This creates a unique cultural bridge between American whiskey-making and Eastern philosophical elements.
How does YOKAI compare to other cask strength bourbons?
YOKAI delivers comparable intensity to other 130+ proof bourbons like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof or Old Forester 1920, with its 8-year age statement providing more oak integration than younger high-proof releases. The Japanese branding adds collector appeal beyond just the liquid quality.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.