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!
Truffles, thick bitter marmalade and resin. Potpourri and heavy Oloroso sherry.
A rich, bittersweet palate with heather roots, cigar leaves, honey, toffee apples, plum wine and black pepper. A touch of rancio, perhaps…
Long, fruity, marmalade-led finish.
I recently tried eight Japanese whiskeys (for the first time) and narrowed it down to this one and the 21-year blended Hibiki. Same price, but I went with the Yamazaki will get the Hibiki next time. Both are among the best whiskeys I've EVER tried. And this is coming from a bourbon drinker.
Recently came back trip from Japan. Tried the Yamazaki 12YO, 18YO and 25 YO at the Suntory Factory just outside of Osaka. Very distinct flavour and differences. 12YO is nice, but for the best value, smoothness and taste, 18YO on the rocks is my pick. Compared 18Y Yamazaki to 18YO McCallum, Yamazaki 18Y because of the smoothness and pleasant taste. 25YO for those with an acquired taste after a more intense oak/smoke favour. My only regret is not bringing a few bottles back from japan. Australia doesn't sell/have 18YO Yamazaki readily available here. Hope this helps!
This is the first Japanese single malt I experienced, and it is quite smooth and pleasant in taste.
Just returned from a motorcycle trip around Japan (Honshu, Kyushu and Shokuku). We needed to burn some spare Yen at Haneda Airport, so I bought a bottle of the Yamazaki 18 year at Duty Free. Can't wait to try it.
I tried this for the first time over the weekend (1/25) and all I can say is Holy Cow! I've heard about the Japanese whiskies, but never had a chance to sample one. The flavors of vanilla, smoke, chocolate, sherry, oak and honey. I passed my glass to my friend and she refused to give my glass back...and she doesn't drink whisky! I'm buying a bottle as soon as I can get my hands on one.
