Yamazaki 12 Year Old is the quintessential offering from Japan's premier whisky producer, Suntory. Distilled in the serene town of Yamazaki, just outside Kyoto, it embodies the spiritual heart of Japanese whisky production. This expression, a harmonious blend from six casks of varying ages, places a spotlight on the influence of rich and fruity Bordeaux Casks and American Oak, offering a captivating and intricate tasting experience.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange, vanilla, Mizunara (Japanese oak).Palate: Coconut, cranberry, butter.Finish: Sweet ginger, cinnamon, long finish.
Hakushu is the second Single Malt distillery brought to life by Japan's pioneering and highly acclaimed whisky producer, Suntory. Drawing inspiration from the pristine forests of Japan, Suntory dedicated 200 acres of natural sanctuary to craft the exquisite Hakushu Single Malt. Nestled in the mountainous region to the northwest of Tokyo, Hakushu Single Malt is characterized by its lively and grassy flavor profile, with a subtle hint of smoky peat. Every facet of Suntory's whisky production adheres to the principles of Japanese authenticity, influenced by the traditions of Scottish malts and executed with unwavering Japanese precision and craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Basil, pine needle, green apple.Palate: Sweet pear, mint, kiwi.Finish: Green tea, subtle smoke.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a captivating blend of Japanese malt and grain whiskies sourced from esteemed distilleries such as Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. Encased in its iconic 24-faceted bottle symbolizing the changing Japanese seasons, this whisky offers an inviting experience, characterized by notes of orange peel and white chocolate, making it a light and appealing choice for whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Rose, lychee, hint of rosemary, mature woodiness, sandalwood.Palate: Honey like sweetness, candied orange peel, white chocolate.Finish: Subtle, tender long finish, with hint of Mizunara (Japanese oak).
This exceptional whisky undergoes a patient maturation process spanning 18 years within sherry butt casks. The result is nothing short of a masterpiece, featuring deeply entrenched and mature notes. Notably, the characteristic sweetness of dried fruits and aromatic chocolate, imparted by the sherry casks, intertwines seamlessly with the profoundly matured flavors that develop during the extended aging period in Japanese oak casks. The outcome is a whisky of extraordinary depth and complexity.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Raisin, apricot, cafe au lait, Mizunara (Japanese oak).Palate: Blackberry, strawberry jam, dark chocolate.Finish: Long, spicy, smooth.
This blended whisky is crafted by combining malt whiskies, including those from the Asaka distillery, with grain whisky made from corn. It contains 20% malted barley and has been aged for three years in first-fill ex-Bourbon casks, ex-Oloroso casks, and ex-Pedro Ximénez casks, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Sasanokawa Shuzo:Nose: Elderflower, malt, caramel, iodine.Palate: Pear, cereals, vanilla, citrus.Finish: Iodine, vanilla, cereals.
The whisky blend known as "Yamazakura Peated" is a combination of various malt whiskies, including some from the Asaka distillery, as well as grain whisky made from corn. It contains 30% malted barley and is aged for three years in first-fill ex-Bourbon, ex-Oloroso, and ex-Pedro Ximénez casks. Notably, it remains uncolored and undergoes no chill-filtering, preserving its natural character.
Tasting Note by Sasanokawa Shuzo:Nose: Caramel, light smoke, vanilla.Palate: Peat, malt, citrus.Finish: Smoke, vanilla, yellow fruits.
The "Akashi Single Malt" is crafted entirely from Scottish barley and aged for three years in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks. This exceptional whisky earned the prestigious title of "Whisky of the Year" at the 2022 International Spirits Challenge, highlighting its outstanding quality and flavour.
Tasting Note by Eigashima Distillery:Nose: Powerful – vanilla & smoky malt.Palate: Round and long – leather & red apple.
The first single malt from Sakurao Distillery, aged for three years in bourbon and sherry casks. With a rounded, subtle body and aromas of nuts and sweet spices, it offers a warm and inviting character.
Tasting Note by Sakurao Distillery:Nose: Fresh — Vanilla, apple, orange marmalade.Palate: Rounded and sweet — Nuts, sugar.Finish: Bright and short — Sweet spices, ginger.