Nestled deep in the lush forests of the Southern Japanese Alps, the Hakushu Distillery has been crafting exceptional whiskies since 1973. Among its prized offerings is the Hakushu 12 Year Old, a single malt that embodies the essence of its pristine surroundings. In this review, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of this “green and crisp” Japanese whisky, delving into its production, tasting notes, and what makes it a standout in the world of spirits.
Table of Contents
The Distillery: A Mountain Forest Haven
Hakushu Distillery, founded by Suntory’s second master blender Keizo Saji, is a testament to the harmonious relationship between nature and whisky-making. Located at an impressive altitude of 2,300 feet above sea level, it’s one of the highest distilleries in the world. The pristine environment, with its soft mountain spring water filtered through ancient granite rocks, plays a crucial role in shaping the character of Hakushu 12 Year Old.
Production: Craftsmanship Meets Nature
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Key Details:
- Age: 12 years
- ABV: 43%
- Composition: 100% malted barley
- Cask Type: Virgin American white oak
The production of Hakushu 12 Year Old is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the gifts of nature. The whisky is distilled using soft mountain spring water and then aged for 12 years in virgin American white oak casks. This ageing process, combined with the unique microclimate of the distillery, contributes to the whisky’s distinctive flavour profile.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Freshness
Nose
The first impression is one of freshness and complexity. Notes of toasted barley, nuts, and subtle barrel char intermingle with hints of chocolate and dried grass. This aromatic profile is reminiscent of a crisp mountain morning, reflecting the whisky’s alpine origins.
Palate
On the palate, Hakushu 12 Year Old reveals its true character. The taste is a harmonious blend of fruity and herbaceous notes, with a grassy undertone that’s characteristic of the distillery. A gentle touch of smoke adds depth and complexity, making each sip a journey through the forest.
Finish
The finish is short to medium in length, leaving behind pleasant traces of orange peel and mineral notes. This clean, refreshing finish is a hallmark of Hakushu’s style, inviting the drinker to savour another sip.
The Hakushu Legacy
Hakushu 12 Year Old is part of a proud lineage of Japanese whiskies. While it stands tall on its own merits, it’s worth noting that Suntory also produces other exceptional expressions like the Hakushu 18 Year Old and the rare Hakushu 25 Year Old. Each of these whiskies showcases the evolution of Hakushu’s unique character over time.
Comparison and Context
To fully appreciate Hakushu 12 Year Old, it’s helpful to place it in the context of other Japanese whiskies. Unlike the sherry-influenced profile of its sibling, the Yamazaki 12 Year Old, Hakushu offers a more herbaceous and lightly peated character. It’s also distinct from other Japanese whiskies like Nikka Coffey Grain or Hibiki Blended Whisky, showcasing the diversity within Japanese whisky tradition.
Value and Availability
Typically priced between £167.79 – 200, Hakushu 12 Year Old sits in the premium segment of the whisky market. While this might seem steep, it’s important to consider the craftsmanship, age, and unique flavour profile that justifies this price point. However, like many Japanese whiskies, Hakushu 12 has faced availability issues due to soaring global demand. This scarcity has sometimes led to prices above the MSRP in certain markets.
Serving Suggestions
While purists might prefer to enjoy Hakushu 12 Year Old neat or with a drop of water to open up its flavours, its crisp and refreshing nature also makes it an excellent choice for a Japanese Highball. The carbonation can accentuate its bright, citrusy notes, creating a refreshing long drink perfect for warm weather.
Conclusion
Hakushu 12 Year Old is a shining example of Japanese whisky craftsmanship. Its unique flavour profile, born from the pristine environment of the Southern Japanese Alps and Suntory’s expert distilling techniques, offers a distinctive experience for whisky enthusiasts. Whether you’re new to Japanese whisky or a seasoned connoisseur, Hakushu 12 Year Old provides a journey through the verdant forests of Japan in every sip.
For those looking to explore the world of Japanese whisky further, Hakushu 12 Year Old serves as an excellent starting point. Its balance of accessibility and complexity makes it a worthy addition to any whisky collection, embodying the harmony between nature and craft that defines the best of Japanese whisky-making tradition.
- Suntory Hakushu Distillery | Japanese whisky distillery.
- Hakushu® Single Malt Japanese Whisky _ The House of Suntory.
- Hakushu 12-year-old single malt, Suntory whisky review _ Good Food.
- In Depth Hakushu 12 Year Single Malt Whiskey Review The Whiskey Shelf.
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