The beginning of Japanese whiskey goes back to 1870 when the production of the beverage was done only on a small scale. However, the output of Japanese style whiskey at the commercial level did not start before 1924. The Japanese whiskey is similar to Scotch whiskey, but with subtle differences. The Best Japanese Whiskey can be consumed like scotch whiskey, i.e. neat or on the rocks. Otherwise, the whiskey can also be consumed in the form of cocktails. If you are planning to purchase a Japanese whiskey, you should learn more about it to get your money's worth, so continue to read.
What to look for while Purchasing Japanese Whiskey
The production of Japanese whiskey was started by pioneers like Taketsuru who studied how Scotch whiskey is distilled. A similar process was implemented to make Japanese whiskey. The Japanese whiskey is identical to the single malt whiskey distilled in Scotland. Some essential features of Japanese whiskey are as follows:
What's special about it?
Japanese whiskey is made from malted barley, which is similar to Scotch whiskey. Japanese whiskey too is aged in wooden barrels or Sherry casks. The whiskey is usually aged in casks made from American oaks or Japanese Mizunara oak. This lends the Japanese whiskey its distinct citrus and spicy flavor.
Why is it so expensive?
The price of Japanese whiskey depends on distinct different flavors and tastes. Nikka makes some of the Best Japanese Whiskey. However, there was a time when most of the casks of this manufacturing unit were empty. This led to a disparity between demand and supply, increasing the price of Japanese whiskeys.
How to pick a whiskey
The first thing to know while selecting a Japanese whiskey is the different Japanese whiskey brands. Some of the most famous Japanese whiskeys ate Nikka's Single Malts, Karuizawa whiskey and the whiskey produced by Fuji Gotemba Distillery. While selecting a whiskey, you must take into consideration the taste, flavor, and aroma of the beverage.
Type of grain
Whiskey primarily is made by fermenting grains like barley, rye or even rice in some instances. However, Japanese whiskey is produced mainly by fermenting barley. Malted barley, especially the peated ones, is the main ingredient for most Japanese whiskey. Since malted barley is also the primary ingredient for Scotch whiskey, both whiskeys have a similarity in taste and flavor. Another Japanese whiskey that you can purchase is the one that is made from coffee grain. The coffee-flavored whiskey is distilled from coffee grain and also has Bourbon like characteristics. Some other grains used in making Japanese whiskeys are as follows:
Barley
Barley is often used to make Japanese whiskey, akin to Scotch whiskey. The grain is distilled twice after being mashed thoroughly. Usually, peated barley is used to give it a distinct flavor. The whiskey's character is often enhanced by adding other ingredients to provide it with smoky, citrusy or vanilla flavor.
RYE
Rye is another grain which can be fermented to make whiskey. It is essential to use at least fifty percent mashed rye to give the beverage its distinct taste. Hakushu’s Rye Whiskey is essentially a Japanese whiskey with definite undertones of being a grain whiskey. Rye whiskeys usually have a fiery flavor.
Corn
Corn is used in Japanese whiskey to give it its distinct 'Coffey Malt' flavor. This whiskey comes from the distilleries of Nikka. Corn whiskey is similar to that of Bourbon and is made by distilling a mash of corn. Nikka gives the whiskey its unique flavor by aging it in Sherry casks.
Wheat
Wheat is a rain that is used to give the whiskey a grainier flavor than other whiskeys. A wheat whiskey will have fifty-one percent of the grain in the mash. Japanese wheat whiskeys are usually aged in Sherry casks or Bourbon barrels to give these the distinctive taste and flavor.
Type of cask
Whiskey needs to be aged in barrels made of oak or other similar wood, to give it its unique flavor and aroma. The unique feature of barrels is that the number of times whiskey is stored in a barrel less flavor is imparted into it. Hence, after some time, the cask needs to be replaced. Moreover, the character of the whiskey will depend on the type of Barrel and the volume of it. The length of time the whiskey remains in a barrel is also responsible for its flavor. Some of the commonly used barrels to age whiskey are as follows:
Sherry
This is the most expensive cask in which whiskey is aged. This cask is used to give whiskey with a flavor similar to chocolate, orange and dried fruits. Sherry casks also give whiskeys a distinct smoky flavor. Sherry casks are usually massive and can hold up to five hundred liters of whiskey.
Bourbon
Bourbon barrels are commonly used to age both Scotch and Japanese whiskeys. Japanese whiskey aged in Bourbon barrels has a distinctive sweet and fruity flavor with trademark undertones of coconut and vanilla. Some of the best Japanese single malts are aged in Bourbon barrels, which make these similar to Scotch whiskeys.
Japanese Mizunara Oak
The Japanese Mizunara Oak is used to make some of the whiskeys. Earlier casks made of the domestic oak trees were found to be porous However, the Japanese Mizunara Oak is one of the most expensive oaks and barrels made out impart the distinct flavor of sandalwood, coconut and incense called 'kara’.
American Oak
The American Oak is used to make barrels that give whiskey its fruity and vanilla flavor. The oak casks are ideal for distilling single malt whiskey. The American oak barrels are cheaper than other casks because this tree has a broader bark and grows faster. Hence, barrels can be made at much lower rates.
Age
Japanese whiskeys are usually aged in oak barrels, which impart the distinct flavor to the beverage. Typically, these whiskeys have fruity, vanilla and woody flavor. The character, taste and aroma of a Japanese whiskey are similar to Scotch whiskey, however, given the difference in weather in Scotland and Japan, whiskey ages faster in Japan. In Japan, whiskey is aged for at least three years and one day. This gives the whiskey its distinct flavor. However, the longer it is aged like eleven, fifteen, or eighteen years, more flavor is imparted to the beverage. Continue reading to learn more about Japanese whiskeys.
Best Japanese Whiskey Review
Suntory sells the Yamazaki’s 12-year-old bottle of whiskey. It is a medium-bodied single malt whiskey. Distilled by one of the oldest distilleries in Japan is known for its unique fruity flavour. Initially, you will be able to identify a peachy, pineapple, grapefruit, candied orange and vanilla flavour. You will also be able to locate a sweet and spicy flavour. The final taste of the whisky is woody, mellow and dry. This full-body whisky has been aged for twelve years old and is distilled by the famous Yamazaki distillery. The alcohol content of the whiskey is forty-three per cent. Some of the pros and cons of this renowned beverage are as follows:
What we liked:
This is a full-bodied and mild-flavored whiskey.
The floral flavor of the whiskey makes it suitable for all palates.
The body of the beverage also has a flavor of nut oil and fruit zests, giving it a distinct flavor
It is a smooth and soft drink.
What we didnt like:
Although it might seem to be a bit on the expensive side, given the flavor and taste, it is a worthwhile investment.
The drink is exclusive and is not shipped to all countries.
So if you are looking for a whiskey that can be stored and served at room temperature, then you can consider purchasing Yamazaki 12.
The Nikka Whisky Distilling Company Limited sells the Nikka Whisky from the Barrel. This Blended whiskey is suitable for all palates and completely vegetarian. The alcohol content of the beverage is fifty-one percent. The whiskey is blended from sixty percent Coffey Grain and forty percent malts acquired from Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Some of the pros and cons of this unique whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
It is a delectable drink with unique flavors of dried fruit, honey, coconut, spice, apple, and vanilla.
If you are careful, you can also detect a smoky flavor.
The whiskey is aged for an average of ten years.
Being a well-aged whiskey, you can quickly get the flavor of the Bourbon cask in which the whiskey is aged.
What we didnt like:
The whiskey needs to be served at room temperature like Scotch whiskey
It is difficult to find this whiskey in many countries across the world.
However, it is the rarity of the beverage that makes it a favorite amongst connoisseurs.
This Single Malt Japanese whiskey is sold by the famous brand Yoichi and is known for its excellent fruity flavor. The whiskey is manufactured by the reputable firm Nikka. This full-bodied whiskey is known for its smoky, earthy, and spicy flavor. The whiskey is best consumed with a small amount of mineral water. The whiskey has forty-three percent alcohol. The whiskey is a favorite amongst connoisseurs because of its unique flavor and taste. Some of the pros and cons of this whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
The whiskey is matured in oak casks giving the beverage its distinct smoky and spicy flavor.
The whiskey itself is entirely vegetarian, which makes it ideal to be consumed even by vegans.
The final taste of the whiskey is peachy and nutty.
I believe it makes the beverage distinctly different from other single malts available in the market.
What we didnt like:
The whiskey is not readily available in all parts of the world.
It is a favorite of those who like peated whiskey.
I think it is one of the closest cousins of the Scotch whiskey but has a mellower taste. Additionally, the unique taste and flavor of the beverage make the price tag worthwhile.
If you prefer a full-bodied malt whiskey, which is rich in flavor, then Nikka's Coffey Malt is the best whiskey for you. This whiskey is distilled in a Coffey and is a grain whiskey. However, unlike other malt whiskeys, it has a distinctly fruity and spicy flavor. The whiskey itself is robust and dry, leaving an after taste of citrus and fruity flavor. The many unique qualities of the whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
The whiskey can be served neat or with a small amount of mineral water. So you can enjoy it either way.
The whiskey is a full-bodied Coffey which is a connoisseur’s favorite. So it makes an excellent gift.
It has a many-layered taste.
I think it is ideal for a palate that has experience in Scotch whiskey.
What we didnt like:
It might seem expensive, but given the taste and flavor, it is worth the investment.
It should be made available in all parts of the world.
The whiskey is made at the Miyagikyo distillery and contains forty-five percent alcohol. The beverage is a favorite of those who enjoy Scotch whiskey.
Suntory sells the internationally famous Hibiki 17. The beverage comes in a beautiful bottle which itself is a work of art. The whiskey itself is a delectable drink that has all flavors from caramel to butter, to Mizunara(Japanese oak) and vanilla. This seventeen-year-old whiskey comes from the famous distilleries of Suntory. The Hibiki itself means harmony and the beverage is true to its name. A single drink of this whiskey will tell you that it is soothing to your palate. There are hardly any negative aspects of this drink. However, some of the pros and cons of the Hibiki 17 are as follows:
What we liked:
This whiskey has a sweet and creamy taste. It has a feeling of mixed peels, raisins, custard and of course oak.
It is a smooth drink and can be consumed neat.
I find the price and the taste of the whiskey worthwhile.
It makes an excellent gift.
What we didnt like:
It needs to be stored properly
Best way to store it is in a cool dark place
However, I believe storage is not an issue with the beverage. Given that the alcohol content of the whiskey is 43%, you don't exactly need a cellar to store the whiskey. A simple cupboard will do.
Akashi White Oak Single Malt which is one of the signature whiskeys from the house of Akashi is a blend of sherry and Bourbon. It sounds unique and is indeed an adventurous whiskey. The distillery of the whiskey is White Oak and is a comparatively new entry in the market of Japanese whiskeys. However, it is a unique whiskey with a burnt caramel start, a cereal taste in the middle, and an oak flavor in the end. This unique combination makes the whiskey delectable. Some of the pros and cons of the whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
The entire bouquet of flavors of the whiskey is unique.
It has a rich aroma of oaks
The entire taste is creamy and buttery
It can be consumed neat
What we didnt like:
Seems to be a bit on the expensive side
Needs age verification for online delivery
However, if you overlook the cons, I believe it is a whiskey worth investing your money. I simply loved its smooth finish and cereal taste. Moreover, the whiskey contains nearly 46% alcohol which makes it very easy to store the beverage. So purchasing the whiskey will be worth your money.
This whiskey is blended in the idyllic Alpine village of Miyada. Shinshu is the highest whiskey distillery in Japan and is owned by the Hombos. Not only is the location of the distillery exotic, but the drink itself is equally so. The cool conditions make it ideal for distilling the perfect whiskey akin to Scotch whiskey. The Iwai Tradition whiskey has nearly forty percent alcohol content, which makes it all the more essential to blend it in cold temperatures. Some of the unique features of this whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
The whiskey is beautifully blended and rich in taste.
You will get a taste of sherry and natural minerals in the beverage.
It is a creamy malt whiskey.
The whiskey is aged in ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry or ex-Wine casks ending the beverage its unique taste
What we didnt like:
It is not readily available in the market.
Pre-orders have to be placed to get the beverage
I believe that the exclusivity of the drink makes it all the more attractive. The excellent taste and the unique flavor of the beverage make it worth the investment.
The Yamakazi Sherry Cask Single Malt is a whiskey from the house of Suntory. It is a whiskey made from barley and is known for its great depths of flavor. It lends the also the beverage its slightly peaty taste. Since this whiskey is aged in sherry casks, it gets a unique flavor and flavor from the barrels. The alcohol content of whiskey is forty-eight percent. Some of the pros and cons of the whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
It is competitively priced despite being an excellent beverage.
It makes an excellent gift.
It has a unique fruity and plum flavor.
It also has a light smokiness, which adds to the overall flavor of the beverage.
What we didnt like:
It is not readily available everywhere
You require an age proof to purchase it online
However, I feel that these can be overlooked when you consider the excellent quality and taste of the beverage.
The 18-year-old Kirin Fujisanroku whiskey is sold by the house of Kirin and is known for its rich, fruity, and woody aroma. This aged whiskey has fifty percent alcohol which is more in comparison to most Japanese whiskey. So if you want to enjoy a whiskey that has an extra kick to it, then this is the one for you. Moreover, it also a personal favorite! I find its fruity and creamy aromas engaging, yet well-balanced. Thus, this whiskey indeed has more pros than cons.
What we liked:
This whiskey has a bouquet of aromas.
You can identify aromas like pineapple, green apple, berries (red currents, raspberries), ginger, vanilla, toffee, caramel, prunes, and many more such fruity items.
The taste of the whiskey is well-balanced with subtle tones of burned oak and cedarwood.
The overall taste of the whiskey is long, sweet with a dry finish.
What we didnt like:
The whiskey is not readily available in all countries.
You need age-proof to purchase the beverage.
However, age-proof is essential to purchase the most alcoholic beverages. But if you want to enjoy an excellent whiskey, I suggest you consider purchasing Kirin Fujisanroku whiskey.
The Hibiki Japanese Harmony from the House of Suntory is an excellent award-winning whiskey. It is known for its unique blend of taste and flavor. This whiskey has an alcohol content of forty-three percent. Some of the pros and cons of the whiskey are as follows:
What we liked:
It makes an excellent gift
It has a beautiful taste of orange peel and white chocolate
The aroma of the whiskey is of oak
It can be had neat or with ice as a refreshing drink.
What we didnt like:
It can seem to be slightly expensive
You need age proof to purchase the drink.
Nevertheless, I feel given the taste and flavor of the whiskey it is worth the investment and also an excellent gift.