Suntory Hakushu 12 Year Old

Hakushu distillery is located in the Southern Japanese Alps and is owned by Suntory, one of the big two Japanese single malt distillers. The distillery started operating in 1973 on the 50th anniversary of the start of construction of its sister distillery, Yamazaki. Nowadays all Hakushu single malt is produced in Hakushu Higashi, a second distillery that was built on the same site in 1981.

The nose is very grassy and fruity with apples, vanilla and some citrus notes. There is also a touch of smoke. All in all this is a very nice nose that makes me curious about what the palate will be like.

The palate is medium-bodied and creamy. I detected faint notes of caramel and honey. The smoke is now more distinct but still rather subtle. At the end a light pepperiness manifests itself.

The finish is medium long, with a lot of vanilla and drying notes of oak.

I am not going to beat about the bush here: the Hakushu 12yo is one of my favourite everyday single malts. Drink it in summer or in winter (I usually do not add water), this dram has always got something to give to you. The nose is a terrific start but I suppose that in the end it is the perfect balance that makes the difference for me.

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