Suntory Hakushu 18 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 quite flowery and yields apple, some vanilla and herbal notes such as green grass. There seems to be a whiff of fresh air similar to a walk in the woods. Some people have detected smoke in here - I have not.

The palate is very smooth, creamy and almost silky although not as voluminous as one might expect from a 18yo. At mid-palate a distinct and interesting spiciness makes its appearance.

The finish is long and mouth-watering, ending with a touch of dry oak.

Hakushu is among my favourite single malts. It is very well balanced and I love the fresh and invigorating nose. I usually drink this without water, fully enjoying this refreshing walk in the woods.

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