Yokai Series: Tengu Barrel II
Distillery - Mugen Spirit
MSRP - $140
Proof - 141.8
Age - 9 Years
Mashbill - Undisclosed
Tasting Notes
Nose – Marshmallow, oak, dark chocolate, and cherry jam.
Palate – Nutty with burnt brown sugar and graham-cracker sweetness.
Finish – Short, with pepper, leather, and light oak.
Food Pairing – S’mores Brownie
Katie and I had a s’mores brownie during a date night earlier this year, and that memory came back immediately when we tasted this pour. The marshmallow and dark chocolate on the nose lined up perfectly with the dessert, and the graham-cracker sweetness on the palate made the pairing feel like it was meant to be. Even with the high proof bringing some heat, the richness and sweetness of the brownie helped everything come together.
Nav and Katie’s Thoughts
I met Kojin, co-founder of Mugen Spirits, several years ago during BBR5, and we quickly bonded over our shared love of bourbon and food. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s been really exciting to see him launch his own brand. That said, it’s easy to support a brand when the whiskey in the bottle actually delivers. This pour impressed both of us. Even at high proof, it showed real balance and depth, and Katie—who usually doesn’t gravitate toward high-proof bourbons—mentioned that it didn’t drink like its proof at all. I’m excited to see what comes next from Mugen.
Distillery Link - Yokai Series: Tengu Barrel II
