Hakushu 18 yo (bottled 2023), 100th Anniversary – Peated Malt, 48%

Introduction

Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is a exceptional commemoration of the centennial anniversary of Suntory’s renowned mountain distillery, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese whisky craftsmanship with its distinctive smoky character and forest-fresh profile.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Premium malted barley with a specific portion that’s peated to impart the characteristic smokiness, combined with pure mountain water sourced from the pristine forests surrounding the distillery in the Japanese Alps
• Distillation process: Double distillation in copper pot stills, following traditional Scottish methods but executed with meticulous Japanese precision
• Maturation: Aged for a full 18 years in a carefully selected combination of American oak, Japanese mizunara oak, and ex-sherry casks, allowing for complex flavor development
• Special techniques: The high-altitude location of Hakushu distillery (700 meters above sea level) contributes to a unique maturation environment, while the 48% bottling strength preserves the whisky’s full character without requiring chill filtration

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Gentle peat smoke intertwined with fresh green apple, yuzu citrus, and aromatic pine forest notes, complemented by sweet honey, menthol, and herbal undertones
• Palate: Elegant smokiness balanced by crisp orchard fruits, with delicate spice, crushed mint, toasted oak, and subtle tropical hints of pineapple and coconut, layered with vanilla sweetness
• Finish: Long and satisfying with lingering smoke, black pepper, ginger spice, and refreshing green tea, eventually revealing dark chocolate and dried fruit notes

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) to appreciate all nuances
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up additional layers of flavor
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with delicate Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi with wasabi, grilled fish, or dark chocolate with sea salt

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 48% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Japan, Yamanashi Prefecture in the Japanese Alps
• Certifications/Awards: Previous Hakushu 18 expressions have won multiple gold medals at the International Spirits Challenge and World Whiskies Awards

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt represents the extraordinary culmination of a century of whisky-making expertise, delivering an unparalleled harmony between delicate smoke and verdant freshness.

This exclusive 100th Anniversary edition is produced in extremely limited quantities, making it not only a remarkable tasting experience but also a prized collector’s item that will only become more scarce with time.

Created by Master Blender Shinji Fukuyo, one of the most respected figures in the whisky world, this expression carries the authority of Suntory’s legendary status in Japanese whisky production.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts and critics worldwide have consistently awarded top honors to Hakushu’s aged expressions, placing them among the most sought-after Japanese whiskies in existence.

Collectors who have invested in previous special editions from Hakushu have demonstrated unwavering commitment to acquiring these rare releases, recognizing their significance in whisky history.

The distinctive green bottle and special 100th Anniversary packaging signify to connoisseurs that this is a landmark release deserving a place among the most treasured bottles in any serious collection.

From Hakushu Distillery to You

Each bottle of this centennial celebration whisky represents a gift of time – 18 years of patient maturation shared with those who truly appreciate the artistry behind exceptional spirits.

The clean, forest-fresh character reflects the distillery’s breathtaking natural surroundings in the Japanese Alps, creating an immediate connection between the drinker and this pristine environment.

By experiencing this remarkable whisky, you join a global community of Hakushu admirers who understand that this 100th Anniversary edition isn’t just a drink – it’s a meaningful part of whisky heritage worthy of contemplation and celebration.