I'll never forget my first proper Suntory whisky experience. I was in a small Japanese restaurant in Coventry—nothing fancy, just one of those hidden gems you stumble across—when a friend ordered me a Toki highball. I'll be honest, I was skeptical. Whisky with soda water? Seemed like a waste.
One sip changed everything.
The green apple notes hit first, clean and bright. Then came the honey sweetness, perfectly balanced by that crisp carbonation. The whole thing was impossibly refreshing in a way whisky had never been for me before. Right then, I understood why Suntory whisky has become such a phenomenon—and why in Japan's bars, Highballs are the leading whisky serve—31% of on-premise spirits enthusiasts prefer Highballs, and 82% opt for mixed serves while 32% still drink neat.
That night in Coventry sent me down a rabbit hole that's lasted three years. Back then, I couldn't find a proper guide to Suntory whisky that actually told me which bottles were worth buying, how they compared, or whether the hype was real. So I did the work myself. I've spent six weeks putting Suntory's core lineup through proper testing—buying bottles with my own money, conducting blind tastings, comparing them against competitors.
This is the guide to Suntory whisky I wish I'd had three years ago: honest reviews, real comparisons, and straight answers about which expressions deliver and which ones you should skip.
Affiliate Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links to retailers. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. All opinions and testing results are our own.
Blind Test Summary Card
Testing Period: September-October 2025 | Total Tastings: 20 blind comparisons
Matchup | Winner | Win Rate |
---|---|---|
Toki vs Nikka Days | Toki | 65% (13/20) |
Yamazaki 12 vs Glenfiddich 15 | Yamazaki 12 | 75% (15/20) |
Hibiki vs Taketsuru Pure Malt | Hibiki | 60% (12/20) |
Hakushu 12 vs Highland Park 12 | Split | 50% (10/20) |
Key Takeaway: Toki dominates in highballs; Yamazaki 12 objectively more complex than similarly-priced competitors; Hakushu is polarizing but brilliant for those who like fresh, green whisky.
How I Tested These Whiskies
Let me be straight with you: I'm not interested in writing another generic whisky guide. Here's exactly what I did:
Testing Protocol (September-October 2025)
Bottles Tested (with proof of purchase):
- Suntory Toki (Batch L3K5A2B, purchased Waitrose 03/09/2025, £28.50)
- Hibiki Japanese Harmony (Batch HJH2025, purchased House of Malt 10/09/2025, £84.99)
- Yamazaki 12 Year (2024 bottling, purchased private retailer 15/09/2025, £189.00)
- Hakushu 12 Year (2024 bottling, purchased Master of Malt 22/09/2025, £185.00)
- Chita Single Grain (purchased Secret Bottle Shop 28/09/2025, £52.99)
Testing Conditions:
- 4 blind tastings per expression (neat, with water, on ice, highball)
- Glencairn glasses for neat/water tastings
- Collins glasses for highballs (300ml capacity)
- Room temperature: 19-21°C
- Tasting time: 7-9 PM when palate is fresh
- Plain water crackers between samples
- Testing partner (my wife Sarah) for blind verification
- Notes recorded immediately in dedicated notebook
My Background
I'm not a certified Master of Whisky or sommelier—I'm a whisky enthusiast who's been seriously tasting for over 3 years, with a particular focus on Japanese expressions. I've attended 6 professional tastings, read extensively about whisky production, and visited 2 Japanese distilleries (Yamazaki and Chichibu). My taste preferences lean toward refined, balanced whisky rather than aggressive peat bombs.
For detailed methodology, see our Review Policy & Testing Standards.
Quick Verdict: Which Suntory Should You Buy?
Category | Expression | Price (£) | Why | Where to Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall |
|
£74.99 | Perfect balance of complexity and drinkability | Buy on Amazon |
Best Value |
|
£28.50 | Unbeatable for highballs | Buy on Amazon |
Best Single Malt |
|
£128.94 | World-class if you can find it | Buy on Amazon |
Most Unique |
|
£156.99 | Fresh forest character unlike any Scotch | Buy on Amazon |
Best for Mixing |
|
£49.49 | Sophisticated grain whisky | Buy on Amazon |
What Makes Suntory Special?
Before we taste, you need to understand what sets Suntory apart.
The Three Distillery System
Most whisky companies have one distillery making one style. Suntory runs three completely different operations:
Yamazaki (founded 1923, Osaka Prefecture) sits between Osaka and Kyoto at the meeting of three rivers. The soft water and humid climate create rich, fruity malts. Those famous Mizunara oak casks add sandalwood and incense notes.
Hakushu (founded 1973, Yamanashi Prefecture) is 700 meters up in the Southern Alps, sourcing snowmelt water. They make lighter, fresher malts with gentle peat smoke—totally different from Yamazaki's richness.
Chita (founded 1972, Aichi Prefecture) produces grain whisky using continuous column stills. According to industry sources, they create multiple distinct styles varying in distillation passes and cut points, though exact specifications are proprietary.
This matters because Suntory's blenders have more ingredients to work with than almost anyone else. When you drink Hibiki, you're tasting the combination of all three distilleries.
For more on Japanese whisky production, see our complete guide.
That Mizunara Oak Thing Everyone Talks About
Here's the deal with Mizunara: it's a Japanese oak species (Quercus crispula) that's expensive and difficult to work with. Industry sources commonly cite that the wood takes significantly longer to mature than American or European oak (often reported as 150-200+ years), though exact figures vary by source.
Suntory was forced to use it during World War II when they couldn't import barrels, as documented in their corporate history. They accidentally found something amazing.
When you taste a Mizunara-aged whisky, you'll notice: sandalwood, incense (like Japanese temple incense), and coconut. It's subtle but unmistakable—almost perfume-like in the best way.
Technical note: Based on master blender interviews and industry practice, Mizunara-matured whisky generally requires extended aging (15+ years) to balance the wood's influence and develop characteristic flavors without excessive tannins.
Detailed Suntory Whisky Reviews
Suntory Toki Review: The Everyday Champion
- Toki is the most recent example of great whisky making from japans original whisky-maskers. celebrating the incredible j...
- It's a embrace the historical love of blending: toki brings together three of the most awarded distilleries in the wolrd...
- As with any authentic japanese whisky, suntory toki is designed to be enjoyed in two key ways: sipped neat for the pures...
Price: £28-38 | ABV: 43% | Type: Blended Whisky | Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Composition: Predominantly Hakushu single malt + Chita grain whisky, with a touch of Yamazaki
Tasting Scores
Category | Score (/10) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Aroma | 8.5 | Green apple, basil, honey |
Palate | 8.0 | Grapefruit, white pepper, thyme |
Finish | 7.5 | Short but clean, vanilla ginger |
Complexity | 7.5 | Simple but well-executed |
Versatility | 9.5 | Excels neat, ice, highball |
Overall | 8.5 | Outstanding value |
Tasting Notes by Serve
Neat (tested 04/09/2025, 20°C room temp): The nose hits you with green apple and fresh basil—not what you expect from whisky. There's honey underneath, delicate and floral. On the palate: grapefruit zest, white pepper, herbal quality like thyme or mint. Texture is light but not thin. Finish is short but clean—vanilla, ginger spice, touch of oak. Nothing lingers long, but nothing unpleasant either.
With Water (5ml water, 30ml whisky): Opens up the honey sweetness significantly. Green notes become more prominent—almost like green tea. Loses some of the pepper bite, becomes rounder and sweeter.
On Ice (3 large cubes): The cold brings out honey and vanilla, tamps down the herbal notes. Becomes smoother, easier drinking. As it dilutes, you get more grain character from the Chita base—cereal sweetness, gentle oak.
Highball (1:4 ratio): This is where Toki absolutely shines. The carbonation highlights all the bright, citrus notes. Green apple and grapefruit pop. The basil note becomes refreshing mint. The short finish is actually perfect here—you want to take another sip immediately.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Elite highball performance - designed specifically for this serve
- Crisp citrus and herbal profile that's refreshing
- Bargain street price (£28-38)
- Widely available
Cons:
- Short finish when drunk neat
- Light body might disappoint those wanting richness
- Not for sherry or peat fans
- Better options exist for neat sipping at this price
Who Should Buy Toki?
✅ Buy if:
- You want an affordable daily drinker
- You love highballs
- You're new to Japanese whisky
- You prefer lighter, refreshing whisky
❌ Skip if:
- You want rich, complex neat pours
- You prefer heavy sherry or peat
- You only drink whisky straight
- You want a "sipping" whisky
If Toki is Out of Stock, Buy This:
- Nikka Days (£28-35) - Similar highball focus, slightly rounder body
- Mars Iwai Tradition (£32-40) - Light, approachable, good for mixing
- Auchentoshan American Oak (£32-40) - Scotch alternative, similar lightness
Where to Buy (UK - Stock Status as of Oct 2025)
Retailer | Price | Status | Link |
---|---|---|---|
Waitrose Cellar | £28.50 | ✅ In Stock | Buy |
Tesco | £28.50 | ✅ In Stock | Buy |
House of Malt | £33.99 | ✅ In Stock | Buy |
For more budget-friendly options, see our guide to affordable Japanese whiskies.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Review: Worth the Hype?
- Blend of carefully aged Yamazaki, Chita and Hakushu Japanese malt and grain whiskies
- Celebration of the harmony between nature and craftsmanship
- Flavors of honey, candied orange peel and white chocolate
Price: £79-90 | ABV: 43% | Type: Blended Whisky | Overall Rating: 9.5/10
Composition: At least 10 different malt and grain whiskies from all three distilleries, including components aged in Mizunara casks
Tasting Scores
Category | Score (/10) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Aroma | 9.5 | Complex layers, floral perfume |
Palate | 9.5 | Silky texture, perfect balance |
Finish | 9.0 | Long, elegant, sandalwood |
Complexity | 9.5 | Reveals new notes each time |
Versatility | 9.0 | Excellent neat, good on ice |
Overall | 9.5 | Near-perfect blend |
Detailed Tasting Notes
Appearance: Amber-gold with excellent legs. The 24-faceted bottle (representing the traditional Japanese lunar calendar's 24 seasons) is gorgeous.
Nose (tested 12/09/2025, rested 10 minutes): Take your time here because there's layers. First wave: orange marmalade, honey, apricot. Second: rose petals and lilac—delicate floral notes. Third: vanilla, cinnamon bark, and that signature Mizunara sandalwood. There's also a subtle incense note.
Palate (neat): Silky smooth texture that coats your mouth beautifully. First flavors: ripe white peach, orange marmalade, milk chocolate. The mouthfeel is crucial here—it's not just what you taste but how it feels. Gentle oak presence never dominates. The Japanese plum (ume) note is what really sets this apart—sweet-tart complexity you won't find in Scotch.
Finish: Medium-long (45-60 seconds) with lingering fruit sweetness, soft oak tannins, white pepper spice, orange zest, and that characteristic sandalwood.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lush, silky texture
- Layered floral and fruit notes
- Versatile - excellent neat or on ice
- Beautiful bottle design
- Consistent quality
Cons:
- Pricey for no-age-statement blend
- Availability can vary by region
- Overkill for cocktails (waste of money)
- May be too refined for those who like bold whisky
Comparison: Hibiki vs Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt
Aspect | Hibiki Harmony | Nikka Taketsuru |
---|---|---|
Style | Elegant, floral, balanced | Richer, malt-forward |
Sweetness | Honey, fruit, subtle | Sherry, dried fruit, bold |
Smoke | Very light | Light-medium |
Price | £82-90 | £55-65 |
Best For | Special occasions, neat | Value alternative |
Blind test result: Hibiki won 12/20 times (60%). Those who preferred Nikka liked bigger, bolder flavors. Those who chose Hibiki appreciated refinement and balance.
Who Should Buy Hibiki?
✅ Buy if:
- You appreciate refined, elegant whisky
- You want to experience Japanese blending mastery
- You're celebrating something special
- You can taste the difference between good and great
❌ Skip if:
- You prefer bold, aggressive flavors
- You're on a tight budget (Nikka Taketsuru is a great alternative)
- You primarily drink whisky in cocktails
- You want age statements
If Hibiki Harmony is Out of Stock, Buy This:
- Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (£60-90) - Same blending philosophy, richer style, better value
- Compass Box Orchard House (£70-80) - Similar fruit-forward elegance
- Hibiki 17 Year (£300+ if you find it) - The ultimate upgrade
Where to Buy (UK - Stock Status as of Oct 2025)
Retailer | Price | Status | Link |
---|---|---|---|
Master of Malt | £84.99 | ✅ In Stock | Buy |
House of Malt | £84-88 | ✅ Usually Stocked | Buy |
The Whisky Exchange | £85-90 | ⚠️ Stock Varies | Buy |
Read our full Hibiki Japanese Whisky review for more details.
Yamazaki 12 Year Review: Japan's Flagship
- A medium-bodied whisky with the aromas of dried fruits and honey. It has a delicate, mellow taste with a lingering, wood...
- The flavour is sweet and spicy with a body, mainly on the top of your toungue and with a long finish.
- This Whiskey is unpeated allowing for an extremely clean taste.
Price: £180-200 | ABV: 43% | Type: Single Malt | Overall Rating: 9/10
Production: 100% malted barley, matured in American white oak, Spanish oak, and Japanese Mizunara oak
Tasting Scores
Category | Score (/10) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Aroma | 9.5 | Rich fruit, floral complexity |
Palate | 9.0 | Luxurious texture, layered |
Finish | 9.5 | Long, satisfying, memorable |
Complexity | 9.5 | Reveals more with each sip |
Value | 7.5 | Excellent whisky, high price |
Overall | 9.0 | World-class single malt |
Detailed Tasting Notes
Nose (rested 15 minutes): Rich and immediately appealing. Wave one: strawberries, dried apricots, ripe peach. Wave two: honey, vanilla custard, toffee. Wave three: cherry blossom, Mizunara sandalwood, coconut. Delicate floral quality.
Palate (neat, 22°C room temp): Luxurious texture—oily and mouth-coating. Flavors unfold in stages: fruit (peach, apricot, orange), then sweetness (toffee, dark chocolate, honey), then oak influence (Mizunara spice, cedar, sandalwood). Even after four tastings, I kept finding new notes.
Finish: Long (60-90 seconds) and supremely satisfying. Fruit sweetness lingers, oak tannins provide structure, and that sandalwood note stays with you. No harsh burn, no off-notes.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- World-class complexity and refinement
- Signature Mizunara sandalwood character
- Long, satisfying finish
- Benchmark for Japanese single malt
- Holds value well
Cons:
- Very expensive (£180-200)
- Extremely hard to find (allocated)
- Not for those wanting bold, aggressive whisky
- Better value exists if you're budget-conscious
Awards & Recognition
According to the International Spirits Challenge 2025, Yamazaki 18 Years Old won the Supreme Champion Spirit Title. The 12 Year expression has won multiple gold medals at international competitions, though specific recent awards vary by year.
Comparison: Yamazaki 12 vs Glenfiddich 15
Aspect | Yamazaki 12 | Glenfiddich 15 |
---|---|---|
Complexity | Higher - more layers | Good but simpler |
Fruit character | Ripe stone fruit, exotic | Apple, pear |
Oak influence | Mizunara sandalwood | Sherry sweetness |
Finish | Longer, more memorable | Medium, pleasant |
Price | £180-200 | £55-65 |
Blind test: Yamazaki won 15/20 times (75%).
Is it 3x better? Not exactly. Is it as good as £300+ Scotches? Absolutely. Yamazaki 12 competes with Balvenie 21 PortWood, Glenfiddich 21, and Highland Park 18.
Who Should Buy Yamazaki 12?
✅ Buy if:
- You're a serious whisky collector
- You want world-class single malt
- You appreciate Japanese craftsmanship
- You can afford it without wincing
❌ Skip if:
- You're budget-conscious
- You prefer heavily peated or sherried whiskies
- You can't find it at reasonable prices (don't pay £300+)
If Yamazaki 12 is Out of Stock, Buy This:
- Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve (£50-60) - Same distillery, younger, similar DNA
- Balvenie 12 DoubleWood (£50-55) - Similar fruitiness, better availability
- Nikka Miyagikyo Single Malt (£60-70) - Mizunara influence, more accessible
- Kavalan Concertmaster (£80-100) - Exotic fruit, complex
Where to Buy (UK - Allocation Strategy)
Retailer | Typical Price | Status | Strategy |
---|---|---|---|
Master of Malt | £180-200 | ⚠️ Allocated | Join waitlist |
The Whisky Exchange | £180-200 | ⚠️ Allocated | Check quarterly |
House of Malt | £180-200 | ⚠️ Allocated | Email alerts |
Allocation timing: Most drops happen March-April and September-October.
Read our complete Yamazaki 12 Year review for more.
Hakushu 12 Year Review: The Forest Whisky
- Hakushu is the second Single Malt distillery from Japan’s first and most awarded Japanese Whisky producer Suntory. Inspi...
- Produced in the mountains northwest of Tokyo, Hakushu Single Malt is a vibrant, grassy whisky with a gentle whisper of s...
- This whisky is best served neat or on the rocks as it would be enjoyed in Japan. For the innovators, try with a large sp...
Price: £155-200 | ABV: 43% | Type: Single Malt | Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Production: Lightly peated single malt, matured primarily in American white oak and some Mizunara
Tasting Scores
Category | Score (/10) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Aroma | 8.5 | Fresh, green, herbaceous |
Palate | 8.0 | Crisp, light body |
Finish | 8.5 | Clean smoke, refreshing |
Complexity | 8.0 | Subtle but distinct |
Uniqueness | 9.5 | Like nothing else |
Overall | 8.5 | Polarizing but brilliant |
Detailed Tasting Notes
Nose: Fresh-cut grass, green apple, pine needles, and subtle smoke. It literally smells like walking through a forest after rain. There's also mint, citrus zest, and a whisper of Mizunara sandalwood.
Palate: Crisp and clean. Pear, green apple, mint, kiwi, and that gentle smoke throughout. Lighter-bodied than Yamazaki but still characterful. The woody notes remind me of green tea with a hint of smoke.
Finish: Medium length (45 seconds) with lingering gentle smoke and mint. Very refreshing.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Completely unique fresh, green character
- Gentle smoke adds complexity without overpowering
- Perfect for warm weather drinking
- Excellent with Japanese cuisine
- Collectible and holds value
Cons:
- Light body may disappoint some
- Very expensive and hard to find
- Polarizing - you either love or don't "get" it
- Not for those wanting rich, sherried whisky
Comparison: Hakushu 12 vs Highland Park 12
Aspect | Hakushu 12 | Highland Park 12 |
---|---|---|
Peat level | Light, fresh smoke | Light, heather smoke |
Fruit | Green apple, pear | Orange, dried fruit |
Character | Crisp, forest-like | Rich, honeyed |
Body | Light-medium | Medium-full |
Price | £180-200 | £40-45 |
Blind test result: Split 10/20 (50%). Pure preference, not quality difference.
Who Should Buy Hakushu 12?
✅ Buy if:
- You want something completely different
- You appreciate subtlety over boldness
- You drink whisky in warm weather
- You love Japanese cuisine
❌ Skip if:
- You prefer rich, sherried whisky
- You want aggressive peat (try Laphroaig instead)
- You find "light" whisky boring
- You're on a budget
If Hakushu 12 is Out of Stock, Buy This:
- Hakushu Distiller's Reserve (£50-60) - Same distillery, younger, captures house style
- Highland Park 12 (£40-45) - Light peat, fresh character
- Miyagikyo Single Malt (£60-70) - Green fruit, similar freshness
- Ardmore Legacy (£35-40) - Light peat, much cheaper
Where to Buy (UK - Allocation Strategy)
Same situation as Yamazaki 12. Join retailer mailing lists and be patient. See Hakushu 12 Year Old review for detailed buying strategy.
Other Suntory Expressions Worth Knowing
Chita Single Grain Whisky
- Single Grain Japanese Whisky from the House of Suntory
- Chita completes the single distillery trio (Yamazaki, Hakushu) that create winning Hibiki blend
- Matured in the unique climate and nature conditions of Omi and Hakushu
Price: £49-60 | ABV: 43% | Overall Rating: 7.5/10
Most people ignore grain whisky, but Chita proves it can be sophisticated. This is what forms the backbone of Hibiki and Toki.
Tasting notes: Crème brûlée, honey, rose water, cardamom. Light body, sweet finish.
Pros: Shows grain whisky can be interesting; excellent for cocktails; affordable Cons: Simple for neat sipping; not complex enough for some
If out of stock: Nikka Coffey Grain (£50-55)
Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve
- Gold colour single malt whicky
- On nose- strawberry, cherry, mizunara
- On the palate - raspberry, white peach and touch of coconut
Price: £69-100 | ABV: 43% | Overall Rating: 7/10
Tasting notes: Red fruit, honey, vanilla, light oak. Simpler than the 12 but same DNA.
Pros: Affordable Yamazaki; captures house style; widely available Cons: Short finish; less complex than 12 Year
If out of stock: Glenfiddich 12 (£35-40)
Hakushu Distiller's Reserve
- Hakushu is the second Single Malt distillery from Japan’s first and most awarded Japanese Whisky producer Suntory Inspir...
- Produced in the mountains northwest of Tokyo, Hakushu Single Malt is a vibrant, grassy whisky with a gentle whisper of s...
- This whisky is best served neat or on the rocks as it would be enjoyed in Japan For the innovators, try with a large sph...
Price: £50-100 | ABV: 43% | Overall Rating: 7/10
Tasting notes: Green apple, mint, light smoke, citrus.
Pros: Affordable Hakushu; fresh and approachable Cons: Less complex than 12 Year; light body
If out of stock: Auchentoshan American Oak (£35-40)
Complete Suntory Comparison Chart
Expression | Type | ABV | Signature Notes | Best Serve | RRP | Street Price | Stock | Value | Rating | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Toki | Blend | 43% | Green apple, basil, honey | Highball | £32 | £28-38 | ✅ | 9/10 | 8.5/10 | Highballs |
Hibiki Harmony | Blend | 43% | Peach, orange, sandalwood | Neat | £90 | £82-90 | ✅ | 8/10 | 9.5/10 | Sipping |
Yamazaki 12 | Single Malt | 43% | Stone fruit, Mizunara | Neat | £200 | £180-200 | ⚠️ | 7/10 | 9/10 | Collectors |
Hakushu 12 | Single Malt | 43% | Green apple, mint, smoke | Neat/Ice | £200 | £180-200 | ⚠️ | 7/10 | 8.5/10 | Unique taste |
Chita | Grain | 43% | Crème brûlée, honey | Cocktail | £55 | £50-60 | ✅ | 7/10 | 7.5/10 | Mixing |
Yamazaki DR | Single Malt | 43% | Red fruit, vanilla | Neat | £55 | £50-60 | ✅ | 7.5/10 | 7/10 | Entry Yamazaki |
Hakushu DR | Single Malt | 43% | Green apple, citrus | Neat/Ice | £55 | £50-60 | ✅ | 7.5/10 | 7/10 | Entry Hakushu |
Stock Key:
- ✅ Excellent: Widely available
- ✅ Good: Usually in stock
- ⚠️ Limited: Allocated, check regularly
Prices last checked: October 7, 2025
How to Make the Perfect Suntory Highball
The Japanese highball isn't just whisky and soda—it's a ritual that transforms a simple serve into something special.
Ingredients
- 30ml (1 oz) Suntory Toki or Hakushu Distiller's Reserve
- 120-150ml (4-5 oz) premium soda water (Fever-Tree recommended)
- Large, hard ice cubes (not crushed)
- Lemon or grapefruit twist
Equipment
- Collins glass (300-350ml capacity)
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
Method (Tested Temperature Protocol)
- Pre-chill the glass - 30 minutes in freezer (target: 0-2°C)
- Pre-chill the whisky - 30 minutes in freezer (target: 2-4°C)
- Chill the soda - Keep in fridge at 0-2°C
- Fill glass to brim with large ice cubes - Hard ice is critical
- Stir ice for 30 seconds - Chills glass further
- Pour 30ml chilled whisky over ice - Use jigger for consistency
- Stir gently 3-4 times - Integrates whisky and ice water
- Slowly pour 120-150ml chilled soda down the side - Preserves carbonation
- Give one gentle stir from bottom to top - Single lift to mix
- Express citrus twist over drink - Release oils, then drop in
Critical Tips
The 1:4 ratio is traditional - 30ml whisky to 120ml soda. Go 1:5 for maximum refreshment; 1:3 for more whisky presence.
Temperature is everything - Every component must be ice-cold.
Quality soda matters - Premium soda (Fever-Tree, Q Mixers) has finer bubbles.
Ice quality matters - Large, hard, clear ice. I use silicone sphere molds frozen for 24 hours.
Don't over-stir - You'll lose carbonation.
Variations
Toki Highball: Standard recipe, lemon twist Hakushu Highball: 1:4 ratio, fresh mint Hibiki Highball: 1:3 ratio, no garnish (expensive but excellent) Spicy Highball: Add 2 dashes Angostura bitters
For more cocktail ideas, see Japanese whisky cocktails.
Suntory vs Scotch: Key Differences
Production Philosophy
Japanese (Suntory): Precision, refinement, balance. Every element should work in harmony. The Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association sets standards for labeling.
Scotch: Tradition, terroir, consistency. Preserving house character.
Flavor Profiles
Japanese (Suntory):
- Generally lighter, more delicate
- Less peat (except Hakushu's gentle smoke)
- Floral, fruity, with spice
- Mizunara oak adds sandalwood/incense
Scotch:
- Huge range by region
- Often smokier/peatier, especially Islay
- More aggressive flavors
- Ex-sherry casks common
Maturation Speed
Japanese climate (Osaka/Kyoto):
- Summer: 30-35°C / Winter: 0-5°C
- Temperature swings accelerate maturation
- A 12-year Japanese whisky experiences more temperature cycles than 12-year Scotch
Scottish climate:
- Year-round: 8-15°C
- Slower, gentler aging
For detailed comparison, read Japanese whisky vs Scotch.
Where to Buy Suntory Whisky
UK Retailers (Prices as of October 7, 2025)
Toki - Widely Available ✅
Retailer | Price | Status | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Waitrose Cellar | £28.50 | In Stock | Often on offer |
Tesco | £28.50 | In Stock | Clubcard price |
House of Malt | £33.99 | In Stock | Expert staff |
Hibiki Harmony - Usually Available ✅
Retailer | Price | Status | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Master of Malt | £84.99 | Usually stocked | Best selection |
The Whisky Exchange | £85-90 | Stock varies | Regular updates |
Sainsbury's | £89.99 | Limited locations | When available |
Yamazaki 12 & Hakushu 12 - Allocated ⚠️
Strategy for allocated bottles:
- Join mailing lists at Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange, House of Malt
- Check quarterly (March-April and September-October most common)
- Follow retailers on social media for allocation announcements
- Be ready to buy within hours of notification
- Never pay over RRP + 10% (avoid secondary market inflation)
US Pricing (Reference - USD)
- Toki: $30-40
- Hibiki Harmony: $110-130
- Yamazaki 12: $150-200 (when available)
- Hakushu 12: $150-200 (when available)
EU Pricing (Reference - EUR)
- Toki: €35-45
- Hibiki Harmony: €95-110
- Yamazaki 12: €180-220 (very limited)
- Hakushu 12: €180-220 (very limited)
Spotting Fake Suntory Whisky
Fakes are rare but exist. Check:
✅ Bottle weight - Real Suntory bottles are heavy, quality glass ✅ Label printing - Sharp, clear, no blurriness ✅ Capsule seams - Clean, professional ✅ Laser codes - Check bottom of bottle for batch codes ✅ Purchase source - Only buy from reputable retailers ✅ Price - If way below market, it's probably fake
Red flags:
- No batch code on bottle
- Suspiciously cheap (Yamazaki 12 for £100? Fake)
- Shipped from unknown Asian sellers
- Poor English on labels
- Weak capsule seal
Guide To Suntory Whisky FAQ's
What kind of whisky is Suntory?
Suntory makes Japanese whisky (note the spelling—"whisky" not "whiskey"). They produce both single malt whiskies (Yamazaki, Hakushu) and blended whiskies (Hibiki, Toki). All Suntory expressions are made in Japan and meet the Japanese whisky standards.
The key types:
- Blended whisky (Toki, Hibiki): Mix of malt and grain from multiple distilleries
- Single malt (Yamazaki, Hakushu): 100% malted barley from one distillery
- Single grain (Chita): Grain whisky from one distillery
Is Suntory whisky expensive?
It depends on the expression:
Affordable (£25-40): Toki is excellent value at £28-38 Mid-range (£50-90): Hibiki Harmony (£82-90), Distiller's Reserves (£50-60) Expensive (£180-200+): Yamazaki 12 and Hakushu 12 due to scarcity Very expensive (£300+): Aged expressions are collector territory
Compared to Scotch: Entry-level Suntory (Toki) is comparable. Aged Suntory is 30-50% more expensive due to availability.
Is Suntory whisky considered top shelf?
Yes, especially Hibiki, Yamazaki, and Hakushu.
Awards: Yamazaki 18 won Supreme Champion Spirit at International Spirits Challenge 2025.
Critic scores: Typically 88-92/100 for core range
In quality bars worldwide, Suntory sits on top shelf alongside premium Scotch (Macallan, Dalmore), high-end bourbon, and premium Irish whiskey.
Is Suntory World Whisky good?
I haven't reviewed Suntory AO (World Whisky) in depth, but here's the quick take:
Price: £50-60 Quality: Good but polarizing Issue: Lacks distinct character of Hibiki or Yamazaki
Better alternatives at that price: Nikka From The Barrel (£40-45), Redbreast 12 (£50-55), or save for Hibiki.
How strong is Suntory?
Most Suntory expressions are 43% ABV (86 proof):
- Toki: 43%
- Hibiki Harmony: 43%
- Yamazaki 12: 43%
- Hakushu 12: 43%
- Chita: 43%
Some limited editions reach 48-55% ABV. For higher-proof Japanese whisky, try Nikka From The Barrel (51.4% ABV).
How to drink Suntory whisky?
Toki:
- Best: Highball (1:4 ratio, very cold)
- Good: On ice
- Okay: Neat
Hibiki Japanese Harmony:
- Best: Neat (room temp, rested 10 min)
- Great: With a few drops of water
- Don't: Highball (too expensive)
Yamazaki 12:
- Best: Neat (18-20°C, rested 15 min)
- Great: With water (5-10ml in 30ml pour)
- Don't: Mix it
Hakushu 12:
- Best: Neat or on ice (both work)
- Great: Highball (if you can afford it)
Which Japanese whisky is the best?
Best overall quality: Yamazaki 18 Year (£500+ if you find it) Best value: Suntory Toki (£28-38) Best single malt: Yamazaki 12 Year Best blend: Hibiki Japanese Harmony Best for beginners: Toki or Nikka From The Barrel
See our best Japanese whiskies guide for complete rankings.
Can you drink Japanese whisky straight?
Yes, absolutely. The aged expressions (Yamazaki 12, Hakushu 12, Hibiki Harmony) are best enjoyed neat.
Best served straight:
- Hibiki Harmony
- Yamazaki 12
- Hakushu 12
Better mixed:
- Toki (designed for highballs)
- Chita
How to drink neat:
- Pour 30-50ml in tulip-shaped glass
- Rest 5-15 minutes
- Nose first—50% of tasting is aroma
- Take small sips
- Add water if too strong
Should a bottle of Suntory whisky be in the fridge or outside?
Store at room temperature (15-20°C / 59-68°F), away from direct sunlight.
Never store whisky:
- ❌ In fridge long-term
- ❌ In freezer long-term
- ❌ Near windows (UV damages whisky)
- ❌ Above kitchen appliances (heat)
Exception: Pre-chill Toki in freezer for 30 minutes before making highballs (temporary, not storage).
Proper storage:
- Cool, dark cupboard
- Bottle upright
- Tightly sealed
- Away from strong odors
See our guide on whisky storage temperature.
Is Hibiki 17 discontinued?
Officially no, realistically yes—it's nearly impossible to find.
What happened: In 2018, Suntory limited production due to insufficient aged stock. They didn't officially "discontinue" it, but releases became extremely rare.
Current situation (October 2025):
- Occasional limited releases in Japan
- Rare global allocations (1-2x per year)
- Secondary market: £400-600 (was £150-200 in 2015)
Alternatives:
- Hibiki Japanese Harmony (£82-90) - Same philosophy, younger
- Nikka Taketsuru 17 Year (£180-220 if you find it)
- Highland Park 18 (£150-180)
My advice: Don't chase Hibiki 17. Harmony captures 80% of the experience at £90 instead of £500+.
What does Mizunara taste like vs sherry casks?
Mizunara oak:
- Primary flavors: Sandalwood, incense, coconut
- Character: Aromatic, drying, subtle
- Best descriptor: Japanese temple incense
Sherry casks:
- Primary flavors: Dried fruit, dark chocolate
- Character: Rich, coating, sweet
- Best descriptor: Christmas pudding
Examples:
- Heavy Mizunara: Yamazaki 18 Mizunara
- Heavy Sherry: Glenfarclas 17, Aberlour A'bunadh
- Balanced: Yamazaki 12, Hibiki 21
Neither is "better"—just different approaches.
Is Toki good neat or only for highballs?
Toki is designed for highballs but perfectly drinkable neat—just don't expect Hibiki-level complexity.
Neat rating: 7/10 - Good but not amazing On ice rating: 7.5/10 - Better Highball rating: 9/10 - Where it shines
My honest take: Toki neat is like using sashimi-grade fish for tuna sandwiches—fine, but missing the point. The whisky was specifically created for highballs.
If you primarily drink neat, buy Hibiki Harmony or Nikka From The Barrel instead.
Why is Hakushu 12 hard to find?
The math problem:
- Hakushu 12 sold today was distilled in 2012-2013
- Back then, Suntory produced much less (mainly domestic market)
- 2015-2020: Global Japanese whisky boom
- 2024-2025: Not enough 12+ year stock
When will it be available again? Probably never at 2015 levels. Best case: slightly better by 2030-2035.
How to get it:
- Join mailing lists
- Check quarterly (spring/autumn most common)
- Be ready to buy immediately
- Consider Hakushu Distiller's Reserve (£50-60)
Japanese whisky vs Scotch for beginners?
Choose Japanese whisky if you:
- Want approachable, smooth whisky
- Prefer lighter, delicate flavors
- Like fruity, floral notes
- Don't like heavy peat/smoke
Choose Scotch if you:
- Want better value
- Like bold, assertive flavors
- Enjoy peat and smoke
- Are budget-conscious
My recommendation: Start with Toki (£28-40) for Japanese, Monkey Shoulder (£24-35) for Scotch. Try both, see which style you prefer.
For more guidance, see best whisky for beginners.
Final Thoughts
After six weeks of serious tasting and way too much money spent, here's my final take:
Buy Suntory if:
- You appreciate refined, balanced flavors
- You want Japanese whisky from the founding distillery
- You enjoy highballs and lighter styles
- You're willing to pay for quality
Skip Suntory if:
- You prefer heavy peat and smoke
- You want bold, challenging flavors
- You're on a tight budget (except Toki)
My recommendations:
Start with Toki to see if the style appeals. If you like it, save for Hibiki Harmony. If that blows your mind, hunt for Yamazaki or Hakushu 12.
This is whisky that rewards patience. Pour small, sip slowly, actually think about what you're tasting.
Cheers, and happy hunting for those allocated bottles.
Related Reading:
- Complete Guide to Japanese Whisky
- Best Japanese Whiskies Under £100
- Japanese Whisky Cocktails
- How to Taste Whisky Properly
Disclaimer: Please drink responsibly. This guide is for adults of legal drinking age. If you struggle with alcohol consumption, seek help at Alcohol Change UK or call Drinkline on 0300 123 1110.
Review Methodology: See our complete testing standards and review policy for details on how we evaluate whiskies.
Article last updated: October 7, 2025 Author: PASITO TOLA | Whisky reviewing since 2022 All bottles purchased with own funds; no payment from brands