Hakushu 18 yo, 43%

Introduction

Hakushu 18 years is an extraordinary Japanese single malt whisky from Suntory’s high-altitude Hakushu distillery, established in 1973 in the Japanese Southern Alps. This distillery is world-renowned for its use of crystal-clear mountain water and its unique high-altitude climate, creating optimal conditions for whisky maturation.

Production Method

• Ingredients: Malted barley and crystal-clear mountain water from Mount Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Southern Alps
• Distillation Process: Double distilled in copper pot stills of varying shapes and sizes to create complexity
• Maturation: 18 years in a combination of American white oak casks, sherry casks, and mizunara (Japanese oak)
• Special Techniques: Matured in high-altitude climate with significant temperature fluctuations, creating unique maturation conditions

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Honey, pear, orange, vanilla, and subtle smoke notes blended with fresh green apples and floral scents
• Palate: Rich and complex with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, dried fruits, spices, and a delicate smokiness
• Finish: Long and elegant with lingering notes of oak, spices, honey, and a mild smokiness that slowly fades

Recommended Serving

• Serving Temperature: Room temperature (18-20°C)
• Glass Recommendation: Glencairn whisky glass or tumbler
• Serving Ideas: Enjoy neat or with a few drops of water to open up the aromas
• Food Pairings: Dark chocolate, Japanese wagyu beef, or smoked salmon

Product Specifications

• Alcohol Percentage: 43%
• Bottle Size: 70 cl
• Country/Region of Origin: Japan, Yamanashi Prefecture
• Certifications/Awards: World Whisky of the Year 2018 (Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible), multiple international gold medals

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Hakushu 18 years represents the absolute elite in Japanese whisky craftsmanship, where 18 years of patient maturation in Japan’s unique alpine climate has created a whisky of exceptional complexity and refinement.

This whisky has become increasingly rare after production halted, making each bottle a valuable piece of whisky history.

The Hakushu distillery, led by the legendary Shinji Fukuyo, is recognized as one of the world’s finest whisky distilleries and has defined the standard for Japanese single malt.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Jim Murray named Hakushu 18 years “World Whisky of the Year” in 2018, an acknowledgment that cemented the whisky as a masterpiece among international whisky connoisseurs.

The whisky has consistently received top ratings from the world’s leading whisky critics and has established itself as a benchmark for Japanese single malt quality.

Hakushu 18 years has become a sought-after collector’s item that continues to impress both beginners and experienced whisky lovers worldwide.

From Hakushu Distillery to You

Suntory has perfected the art of creating Japanese whisky through generations, and they now share this expertise through each bottle of Hakushu 18 years.

This is more than a whisky – it’s an invitation to experience the Japanese approach to craftsmanship, where perfection is achieved through patience and respect for nature.

When you choose Hakushu 18 years, you become part of a global family of whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the finest quality and authenticity.