Kirishima: Special Distillation is an extremely deep sweet potato shochu; it tastes good too. Kirishima S.D.'s distillation process is the brain-child of the distillery workers. The key difference in their distillation process is its segmentation. Through many years of shochu production experience and research, it was discovered that the latter portion of the distillate contained most of the components that contribute to loss of quality and flavor. With this known, the Kirishima Distillery employed an unconventional "segmented" distillation process which allowed them to collect the distillate in phases and only use what was extracted from the start and middle of the distillation process. The distillate produced in these two phases possess a much higher alcohol content, hence the 40% alcohol pecentage; however, Kirishima S.D. is surprisingly easy to drink. The aroma of Kirishima S.D. is quite powerful with an apparent scent of alcohol. On the palate, it's actually quite soft and flavorful. The flavor is deep and savory with a mild sweetness. While the aftertaste doesn't linger all that long; the warming affects are incredible. Once swallow the alcohol literally fills your mouth in the same way as a fine whiskey, leaving a warming sensation going from your nostils to the bottom of your stomach.