Introduction
Whiskey enthusiasts always look for new, unique flavors to add to their collections. Japanese whiskey has gained popularity in recent years due to its smooth and complex taste, attributed to the traditional methods and techniques used in its production. Unsurprisingly, Japanese whiskey has won numerous awards, many of which have outperformed conventional Scotch whiskies. In this post, we will discuss the seven best Japanese whiskies that every whiskey enthusiast should try and give some background information about each of them.
Yamazaki 18-Year-Old
Image Via: house.suntory.com
Yamazaki 18-Year-Old is considered one of the best Japanese whiskies on the market and for good reason. It is produced by Suntory, the oldest whiskey distillery in Japan, and is made using only the finest ingredients. This whiskey has a rich and fruity taste, with a hint of sherry and oak, which comes from the unique aging process in specially selected barrels. The 18-year aging process gives it a smooth and creamy texture, making it perfect for sipping. Yamazaki 18-Year-Old is a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast looking for premium and sophisticated whiskey.
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17-Year-Old
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Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17-Year-Old is named after Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Japanese whiskey, and is a tribute to his vision and legacy. This whiskey blends malt whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, known for their unique and distinct flavors. It has a smoky and woody taste, with a hint of fruit and spices, which comes from carefully selecting and blending the malt whiskies. The 17-year aging process gives it a deep and complex flavor, making it an excellent choice for anyone who loves robust whiskey.
Hibiki 21-Year-Old
Image Via: house.suntory.com
Hibiki 21-Year-Old is a blended whiskey produced by Suntory and is one of the most sought-after and highly prized Japanese whiskies in the world. These are malt and grain whiskies that have been expertly aged for a minimum of 21 years, which gives them a rich and fruity taste with a hint of smoke and spice. The 21-year aging process gives it a smooth and mellow texture, making it perfect for sipping. Hibiki 21-Year-Old is a highly sought-after whiskey and has won numerous awards, making it an excellent choice for any whiskey enthusiast looking for a premium and refined whiskey.
Yoichi Single Malt
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Yoichi Single Malt is produced by Nikka, one of the leading Japanese whiskey distilleries, and is a testament to their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It is made from 100% malted barley and is aged in oak casks, which gives it a smoky and peaty taste, with a hint of fruit and spices. With time, the taste of this drink develops into a remarkably rich and intricate profile, rendering it a perfect choice for indulging in its flavors. Yoichi Single Malt is an excellent choice for anyone who loves robust whiskey and wants to experience Japanese whiskey's unique and distinct flavor.
Miyagikyo Single Malt
Image Via: nikka.com
Miyagikyo Single Malt is another whiskey produced by Nikka and is an excellent choice for anyone who loves smooth and mellow whiskey. The exquisite drink is exclusively made from malted barley and is meticulously aged in oak casks, producing a delectable fusion of fruity and floral notes complemented by delicate nuances of smoke and spice. The aging process gives it a smooth and complex flavor, making it perfect for sipping. Miyagikyo Single Malt is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium and sophisticated whiskey that is easy to drink and enjoy.
Akashi White Oak 5-Year-Old
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Akashi White Oak 5-Year-Old is produced by the Eigashima distillery, one of the smallest whiskey distilleries in Japan, and is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. Blending malt and grain whiskies and aging them for a minimum of five years results in a drink with a delectable combination of sweetness and fruitiness, complemented by hints of vanilla and oak. The aging process gives it a smooth and mellow texture, making it perfect for sipping. Akashi White Oak 5-Year-Old is an excellent choice for anyone who loves sweet and fruity whiskey and wants to experience the unique and distinct flavor of Japanese whiskey.
Togouchi 18-Year-Old
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Togouchi 18-Year-Old is a blended whiskey produced by Chugoku Jozo, a distillery located in the mountains of western Japan, and is a tribute to their commitment to quality and tradition. It's been aged for a minimum of 18 years and has a delightful combination of sweet and fruity flavors with a hint of smokiness and spice. It's seriously delicious! The 18-year aging process gives it a smooth and mellow texture, making it perfect for sipping. Togouchi 18-Year-Old is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium and refined whiskey that is easy to drink and enjoy.
Conclusion
Japanese whiskey is a unique and complex spirit that has gained popularity in recent years due to its distinct and refined flavors. The seven whiskies listed above are some of the best Japanese whiskies on the market, and each one has its own unique and distinctive flavor profile. From the fruity and floral Miyagikyo Single Malt to the solid and robust Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17-Year-Old, there is a Japanese whiskey for every whiskey enthusiast. So, go ahead and try these fantastic whiskies and experience the taste of Japan. Cheers!