Japanese Whisky Guide: Discover the Japan's World-Class Liquors

Japanese whisky is one of the world's proud alcohol cultures with its unique character and charm.

There was a time when whisky consumption in Japan declined. It was completely unpopular, and only older people were in whisky bars. Young people had stopped drinking it.

I, too, only drank beer and sour (a brief explanation of sour) when I was young, and didn't drink whisky at all.

However, Japanese whisky began its comeback from the late 2000s.

Especially, a drink called highball, which is whisky mixed with carbonated water, became popular among young people, and from there, I feel that the number of people enjoying Japanese whisky has increased significantly.

Compared to world whiskies like Scotch, it has a weaker peat aroma, and instead, the refreshing and soft taste created by wooden barrels and high-quality water has been appreciated.

Japanese whisky, which has regained its momentum in this way, has now become a major brand highly regarded around the world.

I have visited Suntory's distillery in Osaka, and there I learned about the meticulous production process and felt the passion for whisky making.

I feel great respect for the efforts of people who have tried to change whisky, an alcohol that came from overseas, to suit the Japanese environment and Japanese taste, and create a uniquely Japanese whisky.

I also remember feeling proud during the tour when I learned that its high quality is recognized worldwide, consistently receiving high evaluations in international whisky competitions.

In particular, Japanese whisky aged in Mizunara oak barrels has a unique character that sets it apart from Western whiskies and is now attracting attention from whisky fans around the world.

The good compatibility with Japanese food is also a great attraction of Japanese whisky. It can be enjoyed together with dishes while enhancing the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine.

In this article, I will introduce the charm of Japanese whisky in an easy-to-understand manner.

When visiting Japan, please refer to this guide and try Japanese whisky.

What is Japanese Whisky

Japanese whisky refers to all whiskies produced in Japan. While it basically follows the method of Scotch whisky, it sometimes uses unique Japanese ingredients and production methods.

In recent years, Japanese whisky has been highly evaluated worldwide, winning top prizes in international whisky competitions, recognizing its high quality. It's also popular as a cocktail base, such as for highballs, and is familiar especially among the younger generation.

Japanese Whisky Has a Definition

In 2021, the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association clarified the definition of Japanese whisky. This made the quality of Japanese whisky clear both domestically and internationally.

To be called Japanese whisky, it must meet the following conditions:
・Japanese whisky must be fermented, distilled, aged, and bottled in Japan
・Raw materials are limited to malt, grains, and water sourced in Japan
・Malt must be used
・It must be aged in wooden barrels in Japan for at least 3 years

These definitions ensure the quality and uniqueness of Japanese whisky. I expect that this clear definition will lead to further development of Japanese whisky and improvement of its evaluation in the world.

Unique Points of Japanese Whisky

Differences from Scotch Whisky

While Japanese whisky is based on the method of Scotch whisky, it has some unique characteristics.

In terms of raw materials, it sometimes uses unique Japanese ingredients, such as Mizunara oak barrels. In terms of production methods, some distilleries use unique methods, such as using continuous stills.

Moreover, Japan's climate is temperate and humid, which also affects aging. These factors work together to characterize Japanese whisky as having a delicate and refined taste.

I believe that this uniqueness of Japanese whisky is one of the reasons why it attracts attention and is highly evaluated from around the world. The unique Japanese character, different from Scotch, is the great charm of Japanese whisky.

Difference in "Water"

While Scotch whisky and others are often made in environments with peaty water, Japanese water is characterized by its clear and soft taste. By utilizing this water characteristic, Japanese whisky with a delicate and refined taste is born.

When I actually visited a distillery, I had the opportunity to hear explanations about the commitment and uniqueness of the water source. After that, I actually tasted the whisky and realized that this beautiful water is a crucial element that determines the taste of Japanese whisky.

Japanese Whisky Aged in Mizunara Oak Barrels

Whisky aged in unique Japanese Mizunara oak barrels is particularly attracting attention among Japanese whiskies. Mizunara oak barrels are known to impart a sweet and toasty flavor, creating a unique taste different from Western barrel materials.

When I first tasted Japanese whisky aged in Mizunara oak barrels, I was surprised by its characteristic flavor. I feel it's a truly original whisky that reflects Japan's climate and culture.

Japanese whisky aged in Mizunara oak barrels is a uniquely Japanese whisky that is attracting attention worldwide.

Why Whisky is Loved by Japanese People

There are several reasons why whisky is loved by Japanese people.

First, it has a delicate taste that suits the refined palate of Japanese people. Japanese whisky is characterized by a milder peat aroma compared to Scotch, with a soft and delicate taste. This matches the preferences of Japanese people.

I myself am one of those captivated by the taste of Japanese whisky. Its delicate and profound taste appeals to Japanese sensibilities, I feel.

Also, one big reason is that it's familiar as a cocktail base that goes well with meals, such as highballs. Japanese people tend to prefer drinking with meals, and whisky goes exceptionally well with Japanese cuisine.

Furthermore, it can be said that Japanese people love whisky because it's often drunk in business socializing or friend gatherings, and enjoying whisky is seen as a sophisticated adult pastime.

For me, the moments of sharing whisky with friends are irreplaceable. Talking about our life views and values while savoring whisky. I think such experiences make whisky a more familiar presence.

Popular Whisky Brands in Japan

Here, I'll introduce Japanese whisky brands and varieties that are popular both in Japan and overseas.

Suntory

Source: Wikipedia

Suntory is a leading Japanese whisky maker with Japan's first whisky distillery, "Yamazaki Distillery". It produces famous brands such as "Hibiki", "Hakushu", and "Yamazaki", which are highly regarded worldwide.

Suntory is also the company that sparked the highball boom. Yamazaki Distillery and Hakushu Distillery offer tours where you can see the whisky-making process up close.

When I visited Suntory's Yamazaki Distillery, I could feel its history and tradition firsthand. I realized that the techniques honed over many years and the passion for whisky-making support the taste of Suntory's whisky.

Website: https://www.suntory.co.jp/whisky/

Yamazaki

Source: SUNTORY Official Website

Yamazaki is Suntory's flagship brand and a representative single malt whisky of Japan. Produced at the Yamazaki Distillery in Osaka, it's made by blending multiple base whiskies.

Characterized by its delicate and deep taste, it boasts a wide lineup from non-age to vintage. Yamazaki has gained high evaluations domestically and internationally and is a globally popular brand.

I have also tasted Yamazaki, and I was impressed by its delicate and profound taste. I think it's truly a whisky that represents Japan, where you can feel Japan's climate and culture in the taste of whisky.

Hakushu

Source: SUNTORY Official Website

Hakushu is a single malt whisky produced at the Hakushu Distillery in Yamanashi Prefecture. It uses spring water from Mt. Kai-Komagatake and is characterized by its clear taste.

Hakushu has a mild peat aroma and an attractive fruity scent. Long-aged bottles such as 12 years, 18 years, and 25 years are popular. It's a high-class whisky representing Suntory alongside Yamazaki.

I feel the beautiful nature of Yamanashi in the taste of Hakushu. The refreshing taste born from clear water and clear air is truly the charm unique to Hakushu.

Hibiki

Source: SUNTORY Official Website

Hibiki is Suntory's highest-grade brand and a blended whisky. It's characterized by a rich and complex taste created by blending base whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita.

There are long-aged bottles such as 17 years, 21 years, and 30 years, known as premium whiskies coveted by whisky enthusiasts.

When I first tasted Hibiki, I was overwhelmed by its deep taste. It's truly a premium experience created by the harmony of multiple base whiskies. I couldn't help but feel Suntory's extraordinary commitment.

Nikka Whisky

Source: Wikipedia

Nikka Whisky is the second oldest whisky maker in Japan, founded by Masataka Taketsuru. It produces famous brands such as "Taketsuru", "Yoichi", and "Miyagikyo", characterized by authentic methods directly from Scotland.

Nikka Whisky also produces cafe grain (grain whisky) and has distilleries in Yoichi Town, Hokkaido and Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture.

Website: https://www.nikka.com/

Yoichi

Source: Nikka Official Website

Yoichi is a single malt whisky produced at the Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido. Known as Japan's oldest whisky distillery, it's characterized by its fruity and light taste.

It boasts a wide lineup from non-age to over 20 years of long aging, and is highly evaluated by whisky enthusiasts both domestically and internationally.

Miyagikyo

Source: Nikka Official Website

Miyagikyo is a single malt whisky produced at the Miyagikyo Distillery in Miyagi Prefecture. It's characterized by a strong peat aroma and powerful taste. It uses base whiskies aged in sherry casks and bourbon barrels.

It boasts a unique lineup from non-age to long aging, and is recommended for those who like smoky whisky.

Ichiro's Malt

Source: Wikipedia

Ichiro's Malt, officially named "Chichibu", is known as a pioneer of venture whisky. Produced at the Chichibu Distillery in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, bottles aged in unique casks such as wine casks and Mizunara oak barrels are popular.

It's counted as one of the world's five major whiskies and has gained high evaluations.

The charm of Ichiro's Malt is its creative whisky making that sets it apart from major manufacturers. Particularly, aging in self-developed barrels creates a unique character not found elsewhere. I can't help but feel the evolution of whisky that doesn't conform to stereotypes.

Komagatake

Source: Hombo Shuzo Official Website

Komagatake is a whisky produced at the Mars Shinshu Distillery in Komagane City, at the foot of the Japanese Alps. At an altitude of 798m, it's the highest distillery in Japan, producing unique single malts using spring water from the Alps and temperature differences.

One of its attractions is the existence of many rare bottles such as Cosmos and Twin Alps.

Website: https://www.hombo.co.jp/item/whisky/komagatake/

How to Enjoy Japanese Whisky

Japanese whisky can be enjoyed in various ways.

Drinking it straight or on the rocks allows you to savor the original taste of whisky. Also, highballs (whisky with carbonated water added) go exceptionally well with meals. The refreshing feeling and whisky flavor match exquisitely.

It's also possible to enjoy a mellow taste by mixing it with water or hot water. It's interesting to try various ways of mixing depending on the character of the whisky.

My favorite way to drink is definitely straight. I first enjoy the aroma of the whisky poured into the glass. Then, I take it into my mouth little by little. By doing so, I can feel a deeper taste of whisky.

Japanese whisky shows various expressions depending on how it's drunk. I think the true pleasure of enjoying whisky is finding your own best way to drink it.

Various Ways to Enjoy Whisky in Japan

There is also a unique whisky culture in Japan. Here, I'll introduce uniquely Japanese ways to enjoy whisky.

Whisky Specialty Bars

In Japan, there are many highly specialized bars with a rich variety of whiskies. There, skilled bartenders provide whisky tailored to your preferences.

Whisky bars also function as places to deepen your knowledge about whisky. They can also be enjoyed as social places where you can interact with other whisky lovers.

Whisky bars scattered throughout Japan form a culture rich in regional color.

I often stop by a whisky bar on my way home from work. Talking about whisky with the bartender, interacting with other customers... The charm lies in new encounters and discoveries through whisky.

Recommended Whisky Bar: Suntory Lounge Eagle

The first whisky bar I visited was Suntory Lounge Eagle in Shinjuku. There, an experienced bartender chose a whisky that matched my preferences. That encounter with whisky became the catalyst for deepening my love for whisky.

<Store Information>
Address: Sekine Building, B1/B2F, 3-24-11 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: Closed
Phone: 03-3354-7700
Hours: 5 PM–11:30 PM
Website: https://bar-navi.suntory.co.jp/shop/0333547700/

Enjoying Japanese Whisky as a Drink with Meals

Japanese whisky is also popular as a drink with meals due to its good compatibility with Japanese food. There are plenty of high-quality whiskies that enhance the delicate taste of Japanese cuisine.

I especially recommend pairing it with sushi, tempura, or yakitori. It's also good to make it into a whisky highball and pair it with light dishes.

The fusion of Japan's unique food culture and whisky culture. I believe that being able to taste this is the great charm of Japanese whisky.

I myself enjoy whisky at sushi restaurants. The umami of fresh seafood matches perfectly with the flavor of whisky. I think it's a uniquely Japanese luxurious experience that I'd recommend to foreigners as well.

Bottle Keep

Bottle keep is a service where you can keep your favorite whisky at a bar or shop. It's a system where you buy a whole bottle or a certain number of glasses worth.

Some shops allow you to put your name or message on your personal bottle, and you can enjoy whisky from your own bottle every time you visit the shop. The charm is that it feels special and you can enjoy the pleasure of having your own whisky.

I have my own bottle at a bar I often visit. Every time I open that bottle, I can spend a special time. Enjoying my own whisky with special people. I think such an experience is unique to Japan's bottle keep culture.

Can Travelers Buy Famous Japanese Whiskies?

The current situation is that ordinary people can hardly buy famous Japanese whiskies like Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, Yoichi, and Ichiro's Malt at large stores. This is because liquor manufacturers prioritize wholesale to restaurants rather than retail.

However, if you peek into small liquor stores, you might sometimes find Hakushu or Yoichi. I was able to buy Yamazaki at a small local liquor store two years ago, but this was an experience close to a miracle.

There are also cases where you can buy them if you go to each production area. In factory tours, which I'll mention later, you can certainly buy brands like Hakushu, but there are restrictions on the number of bottles, so be careful.

Also, in mass retailers, whiskies that have entered the secondary market are sometimes placed at premium prices. However, even these sell out as soon as they're in stock.

For travelers, it's not easy to get famous Japanese whiskies. However, at historical bars and izakayas, you can enjoy them by the glass as manufacturers prioritize wholesaling whisky to these places.

Distillery Tours and Events to Experience Japanese Whisky

If you want to experience the charm of Japanese whisky, I recommend visiting whisky distilleries.

At distilleries around the country, you can not only tour the manufacturing process but also touch on the history and philosophy of whisky making. It's also good to participate in tasting sessions and seminars to deepen your knowledge of whisky.

For whisky lovers, it's like a pilgrimage. The charm is that you can experience the world of whisky while sightseeing and leisure.

I have visited numerous distilleries, and the experiences I gained there are all unforgettable. Seeing the whisky-making site, listening to stories about the history and manufacturing methods. By doing so, my understanding and attachment to Japanese whisky deepened.

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Source: Google Map by SUNTORY

At Suntory Yamazaki Distillery in Osaka, you can taste whisky and receive explanations about the history and manufacturing process of Yamazaki Distillery. Reservations are required for the distillery tour, but the tour itself is free.

<Information>
Address: 5 Chome-2-1 Yamazaki, Shimamoto, Mishima District, Osaka 618-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 075-962-1423
Hours: 10 AM–4:45 PM
Website: https://www.suntory.co.jp/factory/yamazaki/

Suntory Hakushu Distillery

Source: Google Map by Mutsuyama

Suntory Hakushu Distillery is located in the nature-rich environment of Yamanashi. Here, you can taste Hakushu whisky and take reservation-based tours.

<Information>
Address: 2913-1 Hakushucho Torihara, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0316
Closed: None
Phone: 0551-35-2211
Hours: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
Website: http://www.suntory.co.jp/factory/hakushu/

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Source: Google Map by S.Y.

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido is Japan's oldest whisky distillery. You can see introductions to traditional manufacturing methods, taste whisky, and purchase at the shop. The tour is free, but prior reservation is required.

<Information>
Address: 7-6 Kurokawacho, Yoichi, Yoichi District, Hokkaido 046-0003
Closed: None
Phone: 0135-23-3131
Hours: 9 AM–3:30 PM
Website: https://www.nikka.com/distilleries/yoichi/

Whisky Festival

Source: Whisky Festival Official Website

Although different from distillery tours, Japan's largest whisky event, the Whisky Festival, is also a must-see. It's a popular event where you can enjoy various whiskies from Japan and abroad, and entrance tickets sell out quickly.

It's held mainly in Tokyo and Osaka, and in 2024, it was held in Osaka on June 29 and 30. The 2024 Tokyo event hasn't been announced at the time of writing this article, so please check the official website.

I have participated in the Whisky Festival several times in the past. The charm there is that you can encounter rare whiskies that you can't usually taste. Also, as it's a place where whisky lovers gather, you can enjoy information exchange and interaction. I think it's an event where you can fully enjoy the charm of whisky.

Website: https://whiskyfestival.jp/

Japanese whisky is a world-class alcohol culture created by unique history and tradition, and the passion of craftsmen.

From major manufacturers like Suntory and Nikka to venture whiskies, there are brands with diverse individuality. Each offers a unique taste that reflects Japan's climate.

And the charm of Japanese whisky is not limited to its taste. It's also a big feature that there are uniquely Japanese ways to enjoy it, such as highballs and as a drink with meals.

When visiting Japan, please explore the world of Japanese whisky. By tasting it and experiencing the culture and history behind it at distilleries, you're sure to make new discoveries and feel excitement about Japan!