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. Hakushu single malt is known as to be fresh as the rainwater that gathers in the surrounding rivers.

Although some might say it does not compare to its older siblings the 18 and 25 year old it is none the less smashing stuff, being named the best Japanese Single Malt 12 Years and younger for a reason! The nose is greeted by a fresh and invigorating bouquet, reminiscent of lush green forests, with delicate notes of citrus, pear, and a hint of mint. I was surprised by this Japanese whisky as I was expecting it to be a bit harsh and lacking the complex flavours of most Scottish malts.

Rather than their usual battles on the martial arts mats they are going to let the whiskies do the fighting. This is an unaged expression and is blended by Master Blender Keizo Saji at Suntory's incredible Hakushu Distillery.

The only way to serve and enjoy this belting dram is to sip it neat on the rocks or with a dash of water to allow its complexities to wow. The core range includes Distiller’s Reserve, the Hakushu 12 year old, Hakushu 18 year old, and Hakushu 25 year old. Carefully selected and aged in traditional casks, this whisky offers a harmonious balance of flavours that captivate the senses. Freshwater from multiple sources offers a rare softness and purity, only made possible by filtration of rain and snow through thousand-year-old granite rocks.

Its craftsmanship and artistry have earned it accolades from whisky enthusiasts worldwide, cementing its place as a beloved addition to any connoisseur's collection.

He embarked on his journey with a very clear vision as to what he wanted to achieve - to craft top-class, authentic Japanese spirits that were delicately flavoured to suit the nation's tastes. This stunning distillery was built with the vision of Master Blender Keizo Saji to push the boundaries and drive the quality of Japanese whisky. Created by the dream for a new type of whisky of Keizo Saji, the second master blender, the unique taste made in distinct four seasons in high altitude is praised by the most curious whisky connoisseurs and lovers of gastronomy. It's a concept rich in meaning the world over, but particularly in Japan where respect for tradition and reinvention sparks a powerful creative energy. Although the bottle was not for myself I had chance to try it as it was opened it's pleasantly stronger and deeper in taste and mouthfeel compared to the suntory Toki more of an emphasis on barrel spice but still maintaining the floral notes.White is a sacred colour in Japan, and the name is derived from alluvial deposits cast up by the rivers which water the district, rushing down from the mountain above in crystal-clear cascades, filtering through granite rocks and filling subterranean caverns and springs. We're thrilled to be considered a key partner and this 12 year old expression is from their Hakushu Distillery, nestled in the mountain forest of Mount Kaikomagatake. The distillery says: "The Hakushu 12 YO Peated Single Malt is comprised of meticulously selected malt whiskies all aged for a minimum of 12 years in various casks, created in honour of House of Suntory’s centenary. The result is a multi-faceted expression that triumphs in conveying the diversity of Japan’s ecosystems.

Palate - Herbacious, slightly resinous, cucumber and mint with the former fading quickly and the latter hanging in longer. Facebook sets this cookie to show relevant advertisements to users by tracking user behaviour across the web, on sites that have Facebook pixel or Facebook social plugin. Keizo Saji inherited his father’s vision in his quest for innovation and constructed this second Suntory distillery in 1973.Experience the art of whiskey tasting with our exclusive selection of rare and exceptional whiskies.