Japanese whisky is a style of whisky developed and produced in Japan. Whisky production in Japan began around 1870, but the first commercial production was in 1924 upon the opening of the country’s first distillery, Yamazaki. Broadly speaking the style of Japanese whisky is more similar to that of Scotch whisky than other major styles of whisky.
There are several companies producing whisky in Japan, but the two best-known and most widely available are Suntory and Nikka. Both of these produce blended as well as single malt whiskies and blended malt whiskies, with their main blended whiskies being Suntory kakubin (角瓶, square bottle), and Black Nikka Clear. There are also a large number of special bottlings and limited editions
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Hakushu 12 Year Old 100th Anniversary Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
To celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2023, House of Suntory released this special Hakushu 12 Year Old bottling (among other limited-edition whiskies)! Inside you’ll find the same whisky we know and love, a gently peated single malt with a distinctive herbaceousness, but the bottle has been adorned with a special label for the occasion. The illustration on the bottle captures the Hakushu distillery in green, representing the forest that surrounds it.
Yamazakura Asaka Single Malt 2023 Release (70cl, 46%)
This single malt was produced in a pot still at Asaka distillery and aged for three years in bourbon casks. You’ll find layers of bright, ripe fruit, with notes of peach, apricot, apple, and prunes.
Category Single Malt
Distillery Asaka
Bottler Distillery Bottling
Bottling series 2023 Edition
Cask TypeBourbon
Number of bottles 3000
Strength 46.0 % Vol.
Size 700 ml
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master’s Select Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master’s Select – Limited Edition is the brainchild of the fourth-generation chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, who created a blend of more than ten malts and grains from the likes of Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. The whiskies are aged across five different types of cask, before being blended and bottled at 43% ABV.
Developed by fourth generation chief blender Shinji Fukuyo with production overseen by third generation master blender and great-grandson of the founder, Shingo Torii.
This special edition is beutifully decorated, the theme of this bottle is Kacho Fugetsu – Kanji for flowers, birds, breeze, and moon. The design embodies the beauty of Japanese nature.
An extremely rare and collectable bottle.
Distilleries Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita
Bottler Suntory Whisky (SWh)
Bottling series Master’s Select
Bottled 2016
Strength 43.0 % Vol.
Size 700 ml
Togouchi Beer Cask (70cl, 40%)
A sweet, malty blended whisky from Togouchi that has been finished in casks that initially held rum from Martinique, before being transported to France and used to mature IPA beer. These cask have imparted aromas of honey, vanilla, bitter hops and baked apples that fill the nose and are echoed throughout the palate.
Fuji Gotemba Single Grain Japanese 70cl, 46%
Fuji Gotemba Single Grain
You never usually see Fuji whiskey outside of Japan… until now! This single grain is made predominately of malted barley and corn with some rye and comprises three different styles, a Canadian-style grain whiskey made using batch distillation with a kettle distiller (similar to a pot still), a bourbon-style grain whiskey distillate using a doubler (Fuji boasts the only kettle and Doubler outside the U.S.), and a Scotch-style grain whisky made using a column still.
Check out the bottom of the bottle and you’ll notice an indent that looks a little like a mountain. Isn’t there a Mount Fuji? Probably just a coincidence.
Fuji Gotemba Single Malt Japanese 70cl, 46%
Fuji Gotemba Single Malt
From the giant Fuji Gotemba Distillery comes the brand’s signature single malt. Yes, the distillery is at the base of Mount Fuji and that’s where it gets its name. Matured in a combination of bourbon and beer casks (the brand is owned by the Kirin Brewery Company so has good access), this is an elegant, Scotch-style single malt.
Fuji Single Blended Whisky 70cl, 43%
This is a blend of single malt and grain whiskies made at Fuji Gotemba distillery. It was matured in ex-bourbon casks which add aromas of coconut alongside dried apricot and peach on the nose, followed by pleasant notes of orchard fruit, citrus peel and rosehip.
Nikka Yoichi 10 Year Old 2022 Release 70cl, 45%
Nikka Whisky’s first distillery and guardian of their tradition, Yoichi is located on the coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan.
Yamazaki 12 Year Old 100th Anniversary Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
To celebrate House of Suntory’s 100th anniversary, this limited-edition Yamazaki 12 Year Old was released (from Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery, don’t you know). With a special label to celebrate the occasion, it pictures the famed distillery from a low angle, as a reminder to always stay grounded as an homage to founder Shinjiro Torii.
Eigashima Toji’s Select Craft Japanese Whisky 70cl, 43%
The Eigashima distillery in Japan received the first license to produce whisky in 1919. This is known for the extremely traditional craftsmanship.
On the occasion of the centenary, the Eigashima Craft Japanese Whisky was produced with the unique traditional technique of the Eigashima distillery. It is a light and delicate blended whisky.
The Master Blender Toji uses for the production carefully selected grain and malt whiskies, which mature in bourbon and sherry casks.
Nikka Tailored 2 glasses gift box (70cl, 43%)
Introduced to replace the beloved Nikka 12 Year Old, Tailored is a blend of malt whisky from Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries as well as its Coffey Still grain. The whisky balances soft fruity notes with bitter notes of dark chocolate and citrus zest.
Nikka Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast Nikka Discovery 2022 (70cl, 47%)
Japanese single malt that explores and celebrates fermentation and the fruity, floral notes formed during that part of the production process. In contrast to many Scottish producers, for example, Nikka (and other Japanese producers) use various yeast strains, and experiment with many more. These strains are closely protected, and it’s great to see a couple of releases highlighting their contribution – the other being the peated Yoichi Aromatic Yeast from Nikka’s other malt whisky distillery.
Nikka Yoichi Aromatic Yeast Nikka Discovery 2022 (70cl, 48%)
Fruity, floral, peated Japanese single malt from Yoichi distillery on Japan’s nothernmost main island, Hokkaido. It’s one of a pair of exciting Nikka releases based around aromas and flavours from fermentation and yeast, the other being Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast, an unpeated whisky from Yoichi’s sister distillery.
Utilising their experience of using and experimentating with various different yeast strains, Nikka fermented this batch of whisky at a low temperature for a particularly estery character said to be akin to a fine daiginjo sake.
Nikka Session (70cl, 43%)
Produced by Nikka to add some competition to the world whisky stage and match the Suntory Ao release. The whisky is a blend of malts from Yoichi, Miyagikyo, and Ben Nevis distilleries. Nikka who own the Ben Nevis Distillery in Scotland are now utilising the delicious spirit produced there and using it in a few of their blends. Suntory recently produced the Suntory World Whisky by using whisky distilleries from different countries and blending them together. This has motivated Nikka to do the same and we think they have created a very nice whisky indeed. It’s Nikka’s first new whisky in six years. Bottled at 43% ABV.
Suntory Royal SR 72cl, 43%
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
Suntory Royal 72cl
A Japanese blend from Suntory, originally launched to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the company.
Suntory are one of the founding fathers of Japanese whisky, established by Shinjirō Torii in 1899 as a wine store in Osaka. The venture was hugely successful, and the company was renamed Kotobukiya in 1921, which built its first distillery three years later, Yamazaki. The distillery produced both malt and grain whiskies which the company blended together, releasing its first Suntory White Label in 1929, the resulting popularity of which saw the firm renamed after it 1963. Expansion in the next decade saw the company move its grain production to a new Chita distillery in 1972, and open a second malt distillery, Hakushu, the following year. Suntory today has a large stake in both the bourbon and Scotch whisky industry, but remains at the forefront of its native whisky market too.
Suntory World Whisky Ao 70cl, 43%
Originating in Ireland and Scotland, whisky later migrated to the New World. It evolved history and culture, which dictate a whisky’s personality, unique to Canada and the United States.
Despite its youth of a mere century, Japanese Whisky continues to receive acclaim and accolades the world over. Irish, Scotch, American, Canadian, and now, Japanese whiskies, each loved for individuality and known as the world’s five major whiskies.
Beam Suntory holds distilleries from all five regions, inspiring the company to apply its resources toward developing a whisky for a new era.
The careful process of selecting component whiskies from around the world yielded a premium blend in 2019. Produced in-house, Suntory World Whisky Ao represents each of the world’s five top whiskies.
Suntory The Chita (70cl, 43%)
The Chita Japanese single grain whisky is one of the selection of fantastic distilleries owned by Suntory.
Chita is their main expression – a whisky matured in a combination of Sherry, bourbon and (interestingly) wine casks.
Chita whisky is great for the summer months.
Ichiro’s Malt & Grain (70cl, 46.5%)
A blend from the king of independent Japanese distillers, Ichiro Akuto. In addition to whisky from his own Chichibu distillery, it also includes whiskies from America, Canada, Scotland and Ireland. As it says on the label – ‘This is worldwide blended whisky’.
Akashi Sherry Cask Finish Whisky 50cl, 40%
This Akashi is a Blend with Malt and Grain Whiskies. He finished in a Sherry cask and gained fruity aromas.
Yamazaki 18 Year Old No.1057908 70cl, 43%
A wonderful example of what Japanese whisky is capable of. We absolutely love this. Extremely smooth, with great complexity and a lovely balance of fruit, silky malt and a touch of smoke.
Here we have Suntory’s multi award-winning Japanese single malt from Yamazaki, the oldest whisky distillery in Japan. The single malt was launched in 1992, and around 80% of the liquid is matured in sherry butts, while the remaining whisky spent its years in American and Mizunara oak casks. An absolutely stunning marriage of fruit, oak and smoky notes, it’s really no wonder why it won so many awards!
The 18 year old was introduced to the core range in 1992. It is a vatting of 80% sherry butt matured whiskies, with the remainder from Japanese Mizunara and American oak.
Bottle Number: 1057908
Nikka Taketsuru 25 Year Old 70cl, 43%
This 25 year old edition of Nikka’s Taketsuru blended malt whisky is a very rare sight. The Taketsuru expression was named in honour of the company’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, made with malt whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. The well-aged whiskies within this brilliant blended malt display a fantastic balance of Sherried goodness, floral elegance and a subtle hint of peat.
Distilleries Yoichi, Miyagikyo
Bottler Distillery Bottling
Bottling serie Pure Malt
Stated Age 25 years old
Strength 43.0 %
Vol.Size 700 ml
Label 竹鶴
Yamazaki Suntory Royal 60th Anniversary 1960s 5cl, 86 proof
The pictures are from the actual bottle , if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
This is the original release of Suntory Royal, bottled to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary in 1959.
These bottles would have been produced using malt and grain distilled at Yamazaki distillery. Suntory’s grain whisky production was moved to Chita distillery during their expansion in the 1980s.
Suntory Royal SR 1960s Bottling
Suntory have been producing fantastic Japanese whisky since the 1920s, although the company was founded before that. In celebration of their 60th anniversary, they created the Suntory Royal blended whisky in 1960. This bottling comes from the 1960s.
Yamazaki 18 Year Old 70cl, 43%
A wonderful example of what Japanese whisky is capable of. We absolutely love this. Extremely smooth, with great complexity and a lovely balance of fruit, silky malt and a touch of smoke.
Here we have Suntory’s multi award-winning Japanese single malt from Yamazaki, the oldest whisky distillery in Japan. The single malt was launched in 1992, and around 80% of the liquid is matured in sherry butts, while the remaining whisky spent its years in American and Mizunara oak casks. An absolutely stunning marriage of fruit, oak and smoky notes, it’s really no wonder why it won so many awards!
The 18 year old was introduced to the core range in 1992. It is a vatting of 80% sherry butt matured whiskies, with the remainder from Japanese Mizunara and American oak.
Yamazaki 18 Year Old (70cl, 43%)
A wonderful example of what Japanese whisky is capable of. We absolutely love this. Extremely smooth, with great complexity and a lovely balance of fruit, silky malt and a touch of smoke.
Here we have Suntory’s multi award-winning Japanese single malt from Yamazaki, the oldest whisky distillery in Japan. The single malt was launched in 1992, and around 80% of the liquid is matured in sherry butts, while the remaining whisky spent its years in American and Mizunara oak casks. An absolutely stunning marriage of fruit, oak and smoky notes, it’s really no wonder why it won so many awards!
The 18 year old was introduced to the core range in 1992. It is a vatting of 80% sherry butt matured whiskies, with the remainder from Japanese Mizunara and American oak.
Akashi White Oak Single Malt (50cl, 46%)
Akashi Single Malt Whisky is made at the White Oak distillery in the Hyogo prefecture. Producing using lightly peated barley and aged in three different types of cask, this is the brand’s flagship malt.
Single malt Japanese whisky from the Akashi range, produced by White Oak in Hyogo, just west of Kobe. This non-age-statement release ought to prove rather interesting for whisky adventurers looking to try something new.
Yamazaki 12 Year Old (5cl, 43%)
Yamazaki 12 year Old is a pioneering malt in Japan, for which Suntory deserve great credit. In its early days, it was rounded and delicate…now it is more intense, confident and elegant.
No-one can say they are a fan of Japanese whiskey without trying the Yamazaki 12-year-old. This fine 5cl Miniature, first coming to the market in 1984, has been refined through time, with a unique floral but zesty character. Ultimate refreshment is experienced with every sip.
Suntory Royal 15 Year Old Bot.1980s For Bar Leigh 15th Anniversary 70cl, 43%
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond and back, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
One of the Japanese whisky giants, Kotobukiya, or as we know them today; Suntory. The company was founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1899, first as an importer of Western wines and liquor. As he progressed within the business, he decided to build Japan’s first distillery despite protests from company directors. This is where Masataka Taketsuru comes into the picture. He was hired as a distillery executive at Yamazaki on the outskirts of Kyoto. He later left the company to found his own. Suntory developed Japan’s interest with whisky by opening Torys bars throughout the country and introducing ways to drink and enjoy the spirit. Now they produce numerous ranges including Yamazaki, Hibiki, and Hakushu.
Blended whisky Suntory Royal was launched in the 1960 to mark the company’s 60th anniversary. This 15-year-old bottling is light and soft with notes of toffee, ginger and spice and is a great introduction to the world of Japanese whisky.
AGE: 15 YEAR OLD
Suntory Royal SR 72cl, 43%
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond and back, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
Suntory Royal 72cl
A Japanese blend from Suntory, originally launched to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the company.
Suntory are one of the founding fathers of Japanese whisky, established by Shinjirō Torii in 1899 as a wine store in Osaka. The venture was hugely successful, and the company was renamed Kotobukiya in 1921, which built its first distillery three years later, Yamazaki. The distillery produced both malt and grain whiskies which the company blended together, releasing its first Suntory White Label in 1929, the resulting popularity of which saw the firm renamed after it 1963. Expansion in the next decade saw the company move its grain production to a new Chita distillery in 1972, and open a second malt distillery, Hakushu, the following year. Suntory today has a large stake in both the bourbon and Scotch whisky industry, but remains at the forefront of its native whisky market too.
Suntory Royal 12 Year Old Blue Label 72cl, 43%
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond and back, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
This is the original release of Suntory Royal, bottled to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary in 1959.
Originally released in the 1960’s to celebrate Suntory’s 60th anniversary, this bottle was produced much more recently Distilled and Vatted at Yamazaki Distillery.
Suntory are one of the founding fathers of Japanese whisky, established by Shinjirō Torii in 1899 as a wine store in Osaka. The venture was hugely successful, and the company was renamed Kotobukiya in 1921, which built its first distillery three years later, Yamazaki. The distillery produced both malt and grain whiskies which the company blended together, releasing its first Suntory White Label in 1929, the resulting popularity of which saw the firm renamed after it 1963. Expansion in the next decade saw the company move its grain production to a new Chita distillery in 1972, and open a second malt distillery, Hakushu, the following year. Suntory today has a large stake in both the bourbon and Scotch whisky industry, but remains at the forefront of its native whisky market too.
Hibiki 21 Year Old 2019 Edition (70cl, 43%)
Hibiki 21 Year Old was, yet again, selected as the best blended Japanese Whisky at the World Whisky Awards 2020. This comes as no surprise to us at dekantā, as the Hibiki has been awarded every year at the WWA since 2009, and is, in our view, a work of pure genius. The judges once described it as being “Elegant, sweet and complex. This whisky is full of dried fruit, orange peel, strawberry jam, and baked apple from start to finish. Smooth, subtle and fairly short.”
The newest version of the legendary Hibiki 21 Year Old that houses the same outstanding flavours inside a newly designed bottle and box. The subtle refinements made to the 2019 Edition help to bring added flair and elegance to the world-beating expression. The box has been revamped with a more upscale appearance and while the previous version was undoubtedly stunning, this new one feels even more deserving of housing a multi-award winning bottle inside. The label has also been updated with a new tagline. Where it used to say “A harmonious blend of handcrafted select specially aged whiskies”, it now states “A harmonious blend of the finest selection of specially aged whiskies.”
One thing that hasn’t changed is the composition of the liquid. It retains the original formula that has earned dozens of prestigious awards from leading competitions and houses the same outstanding tasting notes inside. After all, when a whisky is this good, there’s simply no sense in making a change.
That means you’ll experience a sweet and complex expression that exhibits outstanding balance through a range of harmonious aromas and flavours.
Strawberry jam, orange peels, apple crumble, sweet caramel, cherries, a whiff of smoke and a range of dried fruits all work in tandem to tantalise the nose and palate and leave you longing for another dram time and time again.
Recent Hibiki 21 Year Awards:
Hibiki 21 Year Old has consistently been awarded the World’s best-blended whisky again took home that award in 2017, as well as Supreme Champion Spirit at the ISC ’17.
- Best Japanese Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2020)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2019)
- Trophy (International Spirits Challenge, 2013-2016, 2018)
- Supreme Champion Spirit (International Spirits Challenge 2017)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2017)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2016)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2013)
- Gold Medal (International Spirits Challenge, 2012)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2011)
- World’s Best Blended Whisky (World Whiskies Awards, 2010)
Nikka Discovery Peated 2021 (70cl, 48%)
This Single Malt Miyagikyo is the fruit of a blend of peated malts, resulting in a peaty expression that differs significantly from the usually light and fruity expressions of Miyagikyo. Around a frank peat, bright and smoky fruity notes appear.
This limited edition is part of the “Nikka Discovery” series, launched on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of Nikka Whisky, which retraces the production processes used over the years.
Nikka Discovery Non Peated 2021 (70cl, 47%)
This limited edition Yoichi Non Peated is the first bottling of the “Nikka Discovery” series. It breaks away from the usual peaty image of Yoichi expressions and offers a Single Malt made entirely of unpeated malts.
It offers a nice balance, delicate and bursting with fruit, rich in the mouth with the characteristic smoke of charcoal distillation.
Created to celebrate Nikka’s 90th birthday, the “Nikka Discovery” series looks back on the different whisky-making processes used by the Japanese distillery over generations.
Suntory Royal 12 Year Old Brown Label 70cl, 43%
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond and back, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
This is the original release of Suntory Royal, bottled to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary in 1959.
Originally released in the 1960’s to celebrate Suntory’s 60th anniversary, this bottle was produced much more recently Distilled and Vatted at Yamazaki Distillery.
Suntory are one of the founding fathers of Japanese whisky, established by Shinjirō Torii in 1899 as a wine store in Osaka. The venture was hugely successful, and the company was renamed Kotobukiya in 1921, which built its first distillery three years later, Yamazaki. The distillery produced both malt and grain whiskies which the company blended together, releasing its first Suntory White Label in 1929, the resulting popularity of which saw the firm renamed after it 1963. Expansion in the next decade saw the company move its grain production to a new Chita distillery in 1972, and open a second malt distillery, Hakushu, the following year. Suntory today has a large stake in both the bourbon and Scotch whisky industry, but remains at the forefront of its native whisky market too.
Yamazaki Suntory Royal 60th Anniversary 1960s 86 proof
The pictures are from the actual bottle frond and back, if you’d like more detailed photos just get in touch!
This is the original release of Suntory Royal, bottled to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary in 1959.
These bottles would have been produced using malt and grain distilled at Yamazaki distillery. Suntory’s grain whisky production was moved to Chita distillery during their expansion in the 1980s.
Suntory Royal SR 1960s Bottling
Suntory have been producing fantastic Japanese whisky since the 1920s, although the company was founded before that. In celebration of their 60th anniversary, they created the Suntory Royal blended whisky in 1960. This bottling comes from the 1960s.
Kurayoshi Tottori Bourbon Barrel (50cl, 43%)
A blended whisky from The Kurayoshi range, made with malt and grain whiskies from Scotland and Japan. This expression is aged in bourbon barrels, helping to develop hefty helpings of intense vanilla notes.
Kurayoshi 12 Year Old 70cl, 43%
The 12 year old Kurayoshi expression – a blended malt from the little-known Matsui Shuzou distillery in Japan’s Tottori Prefecture. These whiskies are made with malts sources from Scotland, then blended with Japanese whisky and volcanic-rock-filtered water.
Kurayoshi Sherry Cask 70cl, 43%
This sherried expression from the Kurayoshi range, created by little-known Japanese whisky producer Matsui Shuzou (also known for sake and shochu). These whiskies are blended malts, made with whiskies distilled in Scotland and shipped over to Japan, where they’re blended with Japanese whisky.
Fujimi The 7 Virtues Of The Samurai 70cl, 40%
FUJIMI “Immortality” in Japanese – is a tribute to those “who served” in Japan under the “Bushido” code ; respecting the 7 virtues of Courage, Integrity, Honesty, Loyalty, Respect, Compassion and Honor.
May the Samouraï and its values live forever!
Aged for 3 years in white American oak barrels, Fujimi Blended Japanese Whisky is smooth and mild.
Hakushu 18 Year Old 70cl, 43%
Launched in 1994, the Hakushu 18 year old is the only age-statement from the distillery still in production.
Hakushu is the highest operational distillery in Japan, towering over its competitors at a height of more than 2000 feet above sea-level. It is a Suntory distillery and, while not quite as globally famous as Yamazaki, the quality of single malt whisky produced here is nothing short of outstanding.
Hakushu is known to use one of the most pristine water supplies in the whole of Japan, drawn from reserves at the base of Mount Kai Komagatake. The water here has a very low mineral content and is much softer than that found elsewhere in the country, and this helps the distillery to create a refreshing, crisp and well-balanced range of expressions.
Many of the whiskies created here are lightly peated, giving peat lovers the perfect ‘in’ to the world of Japanese whisky. On top of receiving the recognition of critics, experts and fans around the world, the distillery’s expressions have also picked up a whole host of awards that highlight the effective processes and expertise of those behind their whisky production.
Award Winning Single Malt
The extensive and delightful range of notes, combined with the unparalleled smoothness, have led the Hakushu 18 Year Old to pick up multiple awards throughout the years. In 2016, it won “Best Japanese Single Malt Whisky” at the World Whiskies Awards, on top of a Double Gold in San Francisco in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
Recent Hakushu 18 Awards:
- Gold Award (International Spirits Challenge, 2009, 2013 – 2014)
- Gold Award (International Spirits Challenge, 2016 – 2017)
- Double Gold Medal Award (San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2015 – 2016)
Nikka Miyagikyo Single Malt 70cl, 45%
Nikka’s entry-level whisky from Miyagikyo distillery. Light in body, yet full of flavour, this is an excellent introduction to Japanese whisky. Elegantly fruity with sherry-cask character.
Nikka Taketsuru 21 Year Old Pure Malt Wooden Box 70cl, 43%
This range of blended malts is named after the Nikka founder. Taketsuru 21 year old was highly acclaimed, but was discontinued alongside the 25 and 17 year old expressions in 2020 after unprecedented 21st century demand for Japanese whisky left even its largest companies suffering from stock shortages.
Hakushu 12 Year Old (70cl, 43%)
This age statement was discontinued as of June 2018.
A perennial favourite and a must-try for anyone interested in discovering Japanese whisky. Hakushu is owned by Suntory, founders of the first Japanese distillery, Yamazaki. The original Hakushu distillery was built in 1973, with another distillery building called Hakushu Higashi (east) added in 1981.
Distillery Hakushu
Bottling serie
Stated Age 12 years old
Strength 43.0 %
Vol.Size 700 ml
Hakushu 18 Year Old Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
Launched in 1994, the Hakushu 18 year old is the only age-statement from the distillery still in production.
This limited edition can only be bought from airport duty-free shops in Japan.
The bottle depicts the Hakushu distillery in the forests of the same name, packaged in a Paulownia wooden box.
Only 500 bottles released worldwide!!!
Distillery Hakushu
Bottling serie Limited Edition
Stated Age 18 years old
Number of bottles 500
Strength 43.0 %
Vol.Size 700 ml
Label Bambus-Box
Hibiki 12 Year Old 70cl, 43%
A stunning 12 year-old blend from Hibiki, some of the whisky has been part-matured in plum liqueur casks. Lovely malt from Hakushu and Yamazaki, plus some aged grain from Chita, this terrific Japanese blend picked up the top prize in its category at the World Whisky Awards 2010.
The 12 year old Hibiki was introduced to the range in 2009, but was discontinued in favour of a new non-age statement Japanese Harmony as the entry level product in 2015.
Cask type Plum Liqueur Barrels
Hibiki 21 Year Old Kacho Fugetsu Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
Hibiki 21 Year Old Kacho Fugetsu Limited Edition
Kacho Fugetsu is the Japanese Kanji for Flowers, Birds, Breeze, and Lunar. This bottle is designed to embody the beauty of Japanese nature.
The Hibiki bottle always has 24 facets representing the 24 seasons of the Japanese lunar calendar.
A very well presented highly limited blend.
Hibiki 21 year old is a very popular and stunning blend produced by Suntory. Here is a hint of it’s success:
- Whisky Bible 2014 – 96 points!
- Word Whisky Awards 2010
- International Wine Spirit Challenge 2011
- Whisky Bible Awards 2012 – Japanese Whisky of the Year
- World Whisky Awards 2012 – Best Japanese Whisky over 21
Nikka Taketsuru 17 Year Old Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)
The reputation of the 21 year old Taketsuru pure malts is well established and the 17 year old edition is equally as well balanced.
Another winner from Nikka’s Taketsuru range. This was named for the founder of the company, Masataka Taketsuru and is a big, bold full-bodied vatted whisky of truly exceptional depth, grace and balance.
Hakushu 25 Year Old Limited Edition (70cl, 43%)
The gem of all gems among the Hakushu 25: The limited edition of only 100 bottles worldwide!
This is the oldest Hakushu that the distillery has ever produced: Hakushu 25 Years Old!
From Suntory’s mountain distillery, found deep within the forests of Mount Kaikomagatake Hakushu is owned by Suntory, founders of the first Japanese distillery, Yamazaki. The original Hakushu distillery was built in 1973, with another distillery building called Hakushu Higashi (west) added in 1981.
Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, Yamazaki is Japan’s first bona fide whisky distillery. Sitting in between Osaka and Kyoto – served by the converging rivers of Katsura, Uji, and Kizu – the stills are varied in shape, size, lyne arm position and some are direct-fired while others are steam-heated. All of which allows for a creation of many different styles of spirit destined for blending as well as bottling as single malt.
An older expression of the excellent Yamazaki whisky. Fully matured in sherry casks for 25 years.
Only around 100 of these limited edition bottlings were produced. Sealed with a Mizuhiki, the five corded knot symbolising a joining of hands, this edition celebrates Japanese hospitality.
Distillery Hakushu
Bottler Distillery
Bottling Bottling serie
Limited Edition Stated Age 25 years old
Number of bottles 100
Strength 43.0 %
Vol. Size 700 ml
Label白州
Hibiki 17 Year Old (70cl, 43%)
This is Suntory’s most popular blend, the Hibiki. Launched in 1989, it contains malt whisky from Yamazaki and Hakushu, and grain from the Chita distillery. The 17 year old was joined in the original lineup by a 21 year old and a non-age statement. The latter both still exist in one form or another, but this expression was discontinued in 2018 after unprecedented demand for Japanese whiskies created wholesale stock shortages within even its largest companies.
A fantastic Japanese blend, made with aged malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s three distilleries. Spicy and sophisticated, this is great for catching people out at blind tastings. Recently awarded a Gold ‘Editor’s Choice’ award from Whisky Magazine and picked up the top prize in its category at the World Whisky Awards 2010.
Taketsuru 21 Year Old Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)
This range of blended malts is named after the Nikka founder. Taketsuru 21 year old was highly acclaimed, but was discontinued alongside the 25 and 17 year old expressions in 2020 after unprecedented 21st century demand for Japanese whisky left even its largest companies suffering from stock shortages.
Tenjaku Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)
Tenjaku Whisky Pure Malt is rich and polished, with a slightly bitter and soft taste. A dense harmony created through the weaving together of pure whiskies of various ages. The gentle union of flavors and a mellowness found only in a pure malt whisky. Delicate yet complex aromas and flavors open up, dancing smoothly in the mouth.
Togouchi Sake Cask Finish (70cl, 40%)
Togouchi Sake Cask Finish is a blend whisky produced by Chugoku Jozo famous for its traditional sakes. The imported Bourbon barrels are installed in the old railway tunnel to be aged there. Then Chef Blender selects and blends the precious whisky to finish it for 3 months in sake casks before bottling it.
Expressing a delicate nose with notes of vanilla, green apple and malt, Togouchi Sake Cask Finish delivers its complexity on the palate with the appearance of lactic, woody and fruity aromas (white fruit). In a long finish, it will leave a few scents of white fruit, spices and malt.
Togouchi whiskies are specific in that they are only aged, blended, diluted in Japan and highlight the work of blending for the future productions of the Sakurao distillery. The aging of whisky casks imported from Scotland and Canada takes place in a unique site: a tunnel 361m long and dug in 1970 offering ideal conditions for maturation (constant temperature of 14°C and humidity of 80%). Part of their Japanese character is transmitted by the terroir through the spring water used for the reduction of the alcoholic volume which is drawn from the heart of the preserved mountains of the Sandankyo natural park.
Togouchi Pure Malt (70cl, 40%)
New creation from Chugoku Jozo, Togouchi Pure Malt is a blend of single malts imported from different distilleries, then aged, blended and bottled in Japan.
Very slightly peaty, this whisky reveals a pleasantly greedy nose with notes of vanilla, chocolate, ripe apricot to which aromas of fresh cream are added to the palate while the fine peat asserts itself. On the finish, the bitter cocoa and hazelnut notes accompany the slowly disappearing peat.
Togouchi Pure Malt surprises with its strong character inherited from the meticulous selection of Sherry and Bourbon casks in which the single malts have been aged between 3 and 9 years.
Togouchi whiskies are specific in that they are only aged, blended, diluted in Japan and highlight the work of blending for the future productions of the Sakurao distillery. The aging of whisky casks imported from Scotland and Canada takes place in a unique site: a tunnel 361m long and dug in 1970 offering ideal conditions for maturation (constant temperature of 14°C and humidity of 80%). Part of their Japanese character is transmitted by the terroir through the spring water used for the reduction of the alcoholic volume which is drawn from the heart of the preserved mountains of the Sandankyo natural park.
Nikka Gold & Gold Samurai Limited Edition Japanese Whisky (75cl, 43%)
The Barrel square glass bottle and minimalist label comes the Nikka Whisky Gold & Gold a.k.a ‘G & G’ Samurai blended whisky in this exceptionally crafted armour.
Gold and Gold Samurai, a superb blend from Nikka, originally only available in the Japanese duty free market.
Comes complete with a unique samurai bust to adorne the bottle.
Hibiki Harmony Master’s Select (70cl, 43%)
Hibiki Master’s Select is a revelation. Whether you’re accustomed to Japanese blended whiskies or not, this sweet and well-balanced expression is sure to give you a jolt, its fruity sherry notes and juicy raisins delighting the palate.
Helios ‘Reki’ Blended Malt Whisky (70cl, 43%)
Reki is a Japanese whisky produced by the Helios distillery in Okinawa . While the company is famous and appreciated above all for its rums and its awamori (a type of rice-based drink only produced in Okinawa), this whisky is produced in very limited quantities mixing malts aged from 3 to 18 years in American barrels.
Fruity, nuanced smoky flavor with dish character, hints of dried apricots, orange, heather honey, licorice root, herbs and vanilla. Served at room temperature.
Kamiki Original Blended Malt Whisky (50cl, 48%)
Kamiki is a unique blended malt whisky made using Japanese malts whiskies combined with specially selected malt whiskies from around the world. After blending, the whisky is finished in casks made from yoshino-sugi (often referred to as “Japanese cedar”). It’s a particularly aromatic type of wood, and Kamiki is said to be the first whisky ever to enjoy a yoshino-sugi cask finish!
Kamiki Sakura Wood Blended Malt Whisky (50cl, 48%)
Kamiki is a new expression of premium Japanese style whisky blessed by Omiwa priests from Nara. Nara is the ancient capital of Japan and it holds many temples from Shinto, Tengri and Buddhist religions, which makes Nara «The City of Temples». Kamiki name is derived from the Miwa Mountain (Mountain of God), which is protected by Omiwa Priests. Inspired by beautiful breezes coming from Miwa, the whisky is named KAMIKI, where KAMI means God and IKI means breath.
Nikka Tailored (70cl, 43%)
Introduced to replace the beloved Nikka 12 Year Old, Tailored is a blend of malt whisky from Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries as well as its Coffey Still grain. The whisky balances soft fruity notes with bitter notes of dark chocolate and citrus zest.
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (2020 Release) (70cl, 43%)
A new edition of Nikka’s Taketsuru Pure Malt, released in 2020! It features a new recipe, showing off the excellent balance of the Japanese whisky, alongside wafts of smoke and waves of creamy malt. The name is a reference to Nikka’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, who established Nikka all the way back in 1934!
Nikka Gold & Gold Samurai Limited Edition Japanese Whisky (75cl, 43%)
The Barrel square glass bottle and minimalist label comes the Nikka Whisky Gold & Gold a.k.a ‘G & G’ Samurai blended whisky in this exceptionally crafted armour.
This is a blend of malt and grain whiskies, with fruity, floral, caramel, and sweet sweet brown sugar aromas.The palate is nicely light, butter, biscuits, light spices, Christmas cake, and raisins. The finish is short to medium, berries, light spices, cinnamon and nuts. Tasting notes courtesy of Taste The Dram, perfectly described!
Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve (70cl, 43%)
From the Hakushu distillery in the foothills of Mount Kaikomagatake comes their Distiller’s Reserve single malt whisky, a no-age-statement expression, that captures the smoky, herbaceous characteristics of their whiskies. Both lightly-peated and heavily-peated malts were used for this complex and deeply enjoyable whisky. One of two Spring 2014 release from Suntory.
Koshi-No Shinobu Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)
A blended malt from the Shinobu range, Koshi-No is initially matured in a duo of bourbon and sherry casks. It’s then transferred to Japanese Mizanura oak for a finishing period before bottling at 43% ABV. A wonderful combo of red fruit, citrus and wood influence.
Nikka Whisky From The Barrel (50cl, 51.4%)
Nikka From the Barrel award-winning whisky is big, bold and spicy, with notes of citrus and malted honey, too.
Suntory Kakubin Yellow Label (70cl, 40%)
A classic blended whisky from Suntory – the core ingredients in countless cocktails over the many, many years its been produced by the legendary Japanese producers.
Suntory Toki (70cl, 43%)
A blended whisky from Suntory’s three distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita. Toki has a different composition to another Suntory blend, Hibiki, as its main components are Hakashu single malt and Chita grain whisky. It should work really well in a highball.
Fun fact: ‘Toki’ means ‘time’ in Japanese.
Akashi Red Blended Whisky (50cl, 40%)
Akashi Red is made at the Eigashima (aka White Oak) distillery, which was founded in 1888. Produced by Akashi, this is a light and fruity whisky with notes of peach, almond and grape.
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)
A non-age-statement expression of Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt whisky, named after the company’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru. It features plenty of whisky from the Miyagikyo distillery, as well as percentage of malt matured in sherry casks to give it a rich, spiced nose.
Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky (70cl, 45%)
Using the two Coffey stills at the Miyagikyo distillery, which were imported from Scotland to Japan in 1963, Nikka have produced a number of single cask single grain whiskies from time to time over the years. This, however, is their larger release of wonderfully exotic single grain whisky. Now in a 70cl bottle!
Nikka Days (70cl, 40%)
Nikka Days is a brilliantly bright blended Japanese whisky from the legendary producer, featuring spirits from the Miyagikyo and Yoichi distilleries. The slightly peated whisky delicately balances both fruity and malted flavours. The sunny packaging is sure to brighten up your day too!
Akashi Blue Label Blended Whisky (70cl, 40%)
Akashi whisky is the only whisky in the world that is made by a Toji (grand-master in the art of sake making) by implementing sake-making methodologies into the whisky making process. The distil pot used is smaller than those used by both Scottish and other Japanese distilleries, which in turn, decreases the levels of fusel alcohol. As a result, Akashi whisky does not require as long of an ageing process, while its new make is smooth and delicate.
Akashi blue is a blended whisky reserved in Japanese Shochu cask (American Oak) around 2 years, aged in bourbon cask before finishing in sherry casks for 1 years.
Akashi Meïsei Blended Whisky (50cl, 40%)
A blended Japanese whisky from White Oak, said to be made with 45% American oak matured single malt. We also understand that Meïsei translates roughly as ‘celebrity’ in Japanese.
Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky Distiller’s Reserve (70cl, 43%)
Released in Spring 2014, this is one of two Distiller’s Reserve single malt whiskies from Suntory in Japan. This single malt from the Yamazaki distillery is jam-packed with superb red berry notes, gained from the whisky being matured in Bordeaux wine casks and Sherry casks. It also features malt matured in Mizunara casks, adding subtle fragrant oak notes.
Togouchi 9 Year Old (70cl, 40%)
A 9 year old blended whisky from Chugoku Jozo’s interesting Togouchi range. The producers create their expressions with whisky from both Scotland and Canada, and age it in a railway tunnel in Japan (which is a nice change of scenery for those cask – certainly very different from your run-of-the-mill warehouse!).
Mars Maltage Cosmo (70cl, 43%)
Mars Maltage Cosmo is a blended malt featuring whisky from the little-known Japanese distillery Shinshu, as well as whiskies from undisclosed Scottish distilleries. An intriguing expression…
Yamazaki 12 Year Old (70cl, 43%)
Yamazaki 12 year Old is a pioneering malt in Japan, for which Suntory deserve great credit. In its early days, it was rounded and delicate…now it is more intense, confident and elegant.
Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky (70cl, 45%)
Previously only released as part of single casks, Nikka decided to add their Coffey Malt to their core range in 2014. Distilled in a Coffey still normally used for grain whisky production, the malt is delightfully fruity and spicy.
Nikka Whisky From The Barrel 3 Litre (3L, 51.4%)
Want to know how to elicit gasps and exclamations of “Wow!” from a room full of whisky lovers? Bring out a 3 litre bottle of Nikka Whisky From The Barrel. That’s right, 3 litres of this incredible, powerful blended Japanese whisky, complete with a wooden stand, a pipette to measure out 4cl of the stunning whisky and a Nikka-branded bag (not pictured). Despite holding six times more whisky than the regular bottles (six!), it still comes presented in a charming square-shaped bottle. It was released in celebration of Nikka’s 80th anniversary in 2014.
A highly recommended cask strength blend. This 3 litre bottle was released for the 80th anniversary of Nikka and includes a display stand and giant pipette for drawing whisky from the giant bottle
Akashi White Oak Blended Whisky (50cl, 40%)
A Japanese blended whisky that has been the subject of some controversy. The bottling for the home market in Japan is made with malt whisky and molasses spirit, which would not be classed as ‘whisky’ in the EU. This export version, however, is made from malt and grain whiskies.
Yamazakura Blended Whisky (70cl, 40%)
A blended whisky from Japan’s Yamazakura range, which is brought to market by Japanese company Sasanokawa Shuzo. The name itself a portmanteau of two Japanese terms ‘Yama’ means ‘mountain’ and ‘Sakura’ means cherry tree. If you think about it, a portmanteau is kind of like a blend but with words, so this name is rather apt for a Japanese blended whisky.