Japanese Whisky

Japanese whisky is a relatively new addition to the whisky world and has quickly become a favourite among connoisseurs. While much of the knowledge may have initially been brought over from Scotland, the category is anything but an imitation – Japanese whisky is made in a variety of locations across the country, each with its own climate and water source.

You’ll find peated editions, single malts, blends, award-winners, and even those that utilise native Japanese mizunara oak in our diverse range.

Whilst rooted very much in the production techniques and processes of Scotch, whisky from Japan has become a fabulous, astonishing spirit all of its own. In fact, many whisky connoisseurs consider Japan to be the home of the best whiskies in the world.

The style of Japanese whisky
Despite the fact that there are significantly fewer distilleries in Japan than in Scotland, there is a truly remarkable diversity in terms of style and flavour here. The whisky can range from the legendary, award-winning malts of Yamazaki, to Yoichi, which is known for its slightly peaty, even coastal-style whiskies. Each distillery introduces something wholly unique. Hakushu, for example, nestled among the forests of the Japanese Alps, produces whisky with a notably herbal, gently smoky character, while Chichibu, a relatively young distillery, has been praised for its innovative production techniques, and has a sweet, fruity spirit. If you would like to learn more about the history of Japanese whisky - visit our Japanese Whisky History Timeline which has been written by our leading whiskey experts and authors.