In the Western world, the fine malts of Japanese whisky wizards Suntory gained an enormous push in popularity in late 2014, when Jim Murray proclaimed the Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2013 his World Whisky of the Year. The craze caused by this accolade did not only put the Yamazaki in a lot of drammers’ mouths (literally and figurally), but also its brother, the Hakushu. Made in the homonymous forest distillery at the foot of Mount Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Alps, this masterfully crafted single malt is strongly influenced by the green seclusion which harbors its remote production site. The 12 years old I am happy to call my own is the standard bottling of the Hakushu; but that does by no means make it an ordinary whisky. Deep, complex and well-balanced, it is an impressive testimony of the Japanese art of distilling and cultivating truly great spirits. If you are curious to try it, better hurry. Due to the ongoing demand, the stocks diminish while the price increases.

by Tobi

Eye: Light gold.
Nose: Fruity and festive. Green apples and gooseberries give way to raisins and marzipan.
Palate: Autumn in a bottle. Ripe pears, stewed quinces and candied ginger enshrouded in a shy and dewy smoke cloud.
Finish: Strong and well-defined with an underlying bitterness.

Type: Single Malt Whisky
Region: Japan
Age: 12 Years
Alc. volume: 43%
Bottle size: 0.7 litres
Price range: ~90.00 Euro
More info: http://whisky.suntory.com/en/na/distilleries/hakushu/index.html