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How to Drink Japanese Whisky: A Beginner’s Guide to Savouring the Spirit of Japan

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How to Drink Japanese Whisky

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How to Drink Japanese Whisky so is easy to learn! Japanese whisky is a special drink from Japan that’s become popular. This guide will teach you the best ways to enjoy it. You can drink it plain, with water, over ice, or mixed with soda. Japanese whisky has different flavours like fruit, honey, and sometimes a bit of smokiness. Whether you’re new to whisky or already like it, this guide will help you understand how to drink Japanese whisky and have fun trying it.

What is Japanese Whisky?

Before we dive into how to drink it, let’s briefly explore what makes Japanese whisky special.

Japanese whisky was born in the early 1920s, inspired by Scottish whisky-making traditions. Key figures like Masataka Taketsuru and Shinjiro Torii played crucial roles in establishing the industry. Japanese distillers have developed their unique methods over the years, emphasizing harmony and perfection, which results in a distinct flavour profile that sets their whiskies apart on the world stage.

The philosophy of kaizen, or continuous improvement deeply influences the Japanese approach to whisky-making. This dedication to perfection is reflected in every aspect of production, from grain selection to maturation. Unlike Scottish distilleries, Japanese distilleries rarely exchange whiskies for blending, leading to more diverse in-house production methods and a wider range of flavour profiles within a single distillery.

Key characteristics of Japanese whisky include:

  • Often made from malted barley
  • Sometimes slightly peated, giving a subtle smoky flavour
  • Generally fruitier and mellower than Scotch
  • Diverse flavour profiles, ranging from light and floral to rich and complex
  • Use of different still shapes and sizes within a single distillery, allowing for greater experimentation

The main types of Japanese whisky are single malt, blended malt, and blended whisky. Popular brands include Suntory, Nikka, and Hibiki. However, it’s worth noting that the Japanese whisky industry has faced recent challenges due to increased global demand and a limited supply of aged whisky, leading to some changes in production and labelling practices.

How to Drink Japanese Whisky: 5 Enjoyable Ways

How to Drink Japanese Whisky

1. Neat

Drinking Japanese whisky neat is the purest way to experience its full flavour profile. Here’s how to do it:

  • Pour about 30-45ml (1-1.5 oz) into a tulip-shaped glass, Glencairn whisky glass, or traditional Japanese glasses like “chirori” or “ochoko” for a more authentic experience
  • Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the aromas to develop
  • Sip slowly, letting the whisky coat your entire palate
  • Notice the different flavours that emerge as you drink

2. With Water (Mizuwari)

Adding a splash of water can help open up the whisky’s flavours:

  • Start with about 30ml (1 oz) of whisky in a glass
  • Add room temperature water. The standard ratio in Japan is typically 1:2 or 2:5 (whisky to water)
  • Gently stir and taste
  • Adjust the ratio to your preference

3. On the Rocks

For a refreshing drink, especially on warmer days:

  • Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes
  • Pour 45-60ml (1.5-2 oz) of whisky over the ice
  • Let it sit for a moment before sipping
  • As the ice melts, notice how the flavours change

4. Highball

The whisky highball is incredibly popular in Japan and is often served with meals:

  • Fill a highball glass with ice
  • Add 30ml (1 oz) of Japanese whisky
  • Top with 90-120ml (3-4 oz) of chilled soda water
  • Gently stir and garnish with a lemon twist

5. Whisky Float

This unique serving method is associated with Super Nikka’s Coffey Whisky:

  • Fill a glass with ice
  • Pour chilled sparkling water over the ice
  • Gently float the whisky on top of the water

Tips for Enjoying Japanese Whisky

  1. Start with lighter whiskies: If you’re new to Japanese whisky, begin with lighter, more approachable expressions before moving to more complex ones.
  2. Use the right glass: A tulip-shaped glass, Glencairn whisky glass, or traditional Japanese glasses will help concentrate the aromas.
  3. Take your time: Sip slowly and savour the experience. Japanese culture values mindfulness, so apply this to your whisky drinking.
  4. Pair with food: Japanese whisky pairs wonderfully with many foods. Try it with:
    • Sushi and sashimi, especially white fish or smoked salmon
    • Tempura
    • Kobe beef
    • Traditional Japanese sweets like daifuku mochi
    • Dark chocolate
  5. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different Japanese whiskies and serving methods to find what you enjoy most.

A World of Flavors to Explore

Japanese whisky offers a wide range of flavour profiles, largely due to the unique production techniques employed by each distillery. You might encounter notes of:

  • Citrus fruits
  • Green apple
  • Vanilla
  • Honey
  • Light smoke
  • Oak
  • Spices
  • Umami (savoury flavours unique to Japanese whiskies)

Each distillery and expression will have its unique character, so don’t hesitate to explore different brands and styles.

Conclusion About How to Drink Japanese Whisky

Learning how to drink Japanese whisky is an enjoyable journey of discovery. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a refreshing highball, there’s a way for everyone to appreciate this fine spirit. Remember, the best way to drink Japanese whisky is the way you enjoy it most. So pour yourself a dram, kanpai (cheers), and start your adventure into the world of Japanese whisky!


Miyamoto, M. (2017). Japanese Whisky: A Beginner’s Guide. Tokyo Spirits Magazine. Tomoyoshi, N. (2023). The Art of Japanese Whisky. Whisky Advocate. The Flatiron Room. (2021). How to Drink Japanese Whisky.  Emen, J. (2017). Japanese Whisky: 5 Rules for Drinking It. Liquor.com.

Best Whiskey Guide. (2024). The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Whisky.

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  1. […] how to drink Japanese whisky is key to appreciating its nuances. In Japan, whiskey is enjoyed in various […]

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