First Korean whisky heads to UK
Pernod Ricard-owned The Whisky Exchange will offer Korea's first single malt whisky, Ki One, in the UK.
Ki One will be available exclusively through the spirits retailer from 1 August. “We’re always on the lookout for up-and-coming distilleries from all over the world, so when we had the opportunity to launch Ki One in the UK, we jumped at it," said Dawn Davies, buying director of The Whisky Exchange. "This distillery is one to watch in the coming years, with big ambitions and great potential. It’s exciting to continue to see more quality whiskies coming out of Asia, and to be such an integral part in the story of Korea’s first single malt journey is something we’re really proud of.” The whisky is made at Three Societies Distillery, located 40 minutes from Seoul, and 'experiences a dramatic temperature range from 30°C in summer to -20°C in winter, effectively speeding up the ageing process and resulting in a bold and refined whisky despite its relatively young age.' Ki One, aged in virgin American oak casks, is the first release from the distillery available on the global market. The inaugural release showcases 'spicy notes alongside the spirit’s own rich and chocolatey character, giving a complex and layered palate – the perfect introduction to the distillery.' “Ki One is a rich and rounded whisky with well-integrated spiciness, loads of creamy toffee and chocolate on top of orchard fruit, and a touch of cherry,” described Billy Abbott, whisky ambassador at The Whisky Exchange. Ki One Korean single malt whisky is offered at 46% ABV in a 700ml bottle and is available exclusively at The Whisky Exchange for £79.95 (US$103). Three Societies, founded in 2020 by Bryan Do and Andrew Shand, is Korea’s first whisky distillery. The Whisky Exchange has been a pioneer in bringing exciting world whiskies to its audience of enthusiasts and connoisseurs since its founding in 1999. The company was the first to retail Japanese, Taiwanese and Indian whiskies, including the Yamazaki, Kavalan and Amrut. It also recently helped launch Chinese single malt in the UK.
