Introduction
Japanese whisky has been gaining attention worldwide in recent years, and one of the most famous ones is Hakushu. Hakushu is a Japanese single malt whisky produced by the Yamazaki Distillery. It has fascinated many people with its quality and balanced flavor. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the history, characteristics, and a list of vintage Hakushu whiskies.
Characteristics
Hakushu is a single malt whisky made using only malted barley and distilled at the "forest distillery" using the natural water of the Southern Alps.
The flavor of Hakushu incorporates the essence of the vibrant forest, with its clear water, pristine air, and the challenging climate.
The natural water of the Southern Alps, which seeps into the ground over about 20 years, passing through granite layers, is rich in minerals and soft in quality. It serves as the foundation for the aroma and flavor of Hakushu's malted barley. Even after aging for 5, 10, or several decades, Hakushu maintains a refreshing aroma and a light and smooth taste.
Craftsmen continue to pursue whisky-making in the forest, enjoying the blessings of nature. They carefully assess the individuality of the various Hakushu malted barley and skillfully weave together the unique aroma and flavor of Hakushu. They put great effort into each step of the process, from the preparation of the raw materials to fermentation, distillation, and aging, in order to create a lively and profound flavor.
Despite the hint of smokiness, Hakushu's refreshing taste and aroma evoke the image of a forest, captivating whisky enthusiasts around the world.
In 2006, Hakushu 18 won a gold award at the prestigious International Spirits Challenge (ISC). Since then, it has received numerous awards. The challenges of the "forest distillery," which is rare in the world, will continue in the future.
Product Lineup
Hakushu
Hakushu is a single malt whisky with a refreshing aroma and light taste, resembling the fresh leaves of the forest. It is created by selecting the ideal malt from the diverse malted barley of the Hakushu Distillery.
This malt has a fresh green aroma, a light smoky flavor, and a combination of complexity and depth, achieved through the combination with selected malted barley. Enjoy the distinctive taste of Hakushu.
Color: Bright golden
Aroma: Yuzu, mint
Taste: Light and refreshing, with a slight acidity
Finish: Slightly smoky, subtle sweetness, clean and crisp
Hakushu 12
Hakushu 12 has a sweet and soft smokiness, with the aroma of fresh greenery and fruits.
This single malt whisky is made by carefully selecting malted barley aged for 12 years or more.
In the refreshing aroma of fresh greenery, a plump fruity flavor emerges, providing a clean and enjoyable finish.
Color: Bright golden
Aroma: Young leaves, green apple, jasmine
Taste: Plump sweetness, clean flavor
Finish: Sweet and soft smokiness, good sharpness
Hakushu 18
Hakushu 18 has a deep aroma reminiscent of matured fruits and a subtle smokiness.
This whisky is crafted using malted barley aged 18 years or more, which brings out a rich aroma and a hint of smokiness.
The complexity, sweetness, and the elegant aroma of oak are beautifully harmonized.
Enjoy the smoky and pleasant lingering finish.
Color: Deep golden
Aroma: Melon, mango, milk caramel, subtle smokiness
Taste: Rich fruit sweetness, sweet and sour
Finish: Aroma of matured fruits, smoky and pleasant lingering finish
Hakushu 25
Hakushu 25 is a Japanese whisky with a rich and magnificent flavor and a deep aftertaste.
This whisky is made from precious Hakushu malted barley aged 25 years or more, carefully selected and matured, including creamy and woody malted barley, peat-infused smoky malted barley, and fruity sherry cask malted barley.
Color: Amber with a reddish tint
Aroma: Matured persimmon, mango, jam, chocolate
Taste: Concentrated fruit sweetness, creamy, subtle acidity
Finish: Long smoky and fruity sweetness lingering on the palate
