Exploring the global whiskey scene is something that I have become very passionate about over the last year. We have gotten to try many great whiskies from around the world and even have discussions with the makers of these great products. One style of whisky has jumped out for me of late; Japanese Whisky. I was lucky enough to sit down with the 100th anniversary House of Suntory box set and wanted to share my thoughts. Let’s Dive in!
Just the Facts: Hakushu 12 100th Anniversary
- Proof: 86
- Age: 12
- Mashbill: 100% malted barley
- Style: Japanese Single Malt
- Price: $350
Tasting Notes: Hakushu 12 100th Anniversary
Nose: slight hint of smoke, vanilla, honey, crisp apple and custard
Palate: the hint of smoke carries over to the palate with apple and vanilla which fades to almost a milk chocolate. This drinks much stronger than the traditional Hakushu profile.
Finish: Great subtle chocolate finish with lingering smoke
Just the Facts: Hakushu 18 100th Anniversary
- Proof: 96
- Age: 18
- Mashbill: 100% malted barley
- Style: Japanese Single Malt
- Price: $3,000
Tasting Notes: Hakushu 18 100th Anniversary
Nose: Vanilla, lighter smoke profile, and pear
Palate: Pit smoke, with lots of umami, pear and apple, fades to milk chocolate
Finish: Lingering smoke and chocolate
Just the Facts: Yamazaki 12 100th Anniversary
- Proof: 86
- Age: 12
- Mashbill: 100% malted barley
- Style: Japanese Single Malt
- Price: $200 to $300
Tasting Notes: Yamazaki 12 100th Anniversary
Nose: Slight sherry, oak, light chocolate, and honey
Palate: Fruity palate, plum, apple, honey and clove
Finish: Ripe plum that lingers for a long full finish
Just the Facts: Yamazaki 18 100th Anniversary
- Proof: 96
- Age: 18
- Mashbill: 100% malted barley
- Style: Japanese Single Malt
- Price: $4,000
Tasting Notes: Yamazaki 18 100th Anniversary
Nose: On the nose, the barrel finish gives a bouquet of aromas. Caramel, vanilla and plum meet your nose for an appetizing sniff.
Palate: Dark bitter chocolate, lychee candy, plum/fig
Finish: dark fruit, bitter chocolate, long finish
Closing Thoughts
All of the 100 year House of Suntory whiskies were amazing. However, one stood out and, surprisingly, it wasn’t either of the 18 year old whiskies. The 12 year old Yamazaki 100th Anniversary was just spectacular, though the 18 Year Yamazaki was a close second. You definitely will not be disappointed if you get to try any of these whiskies.
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