Yamazaki 12 yo, 43%

Introduction

Yamazaki 12 Year Old is Japan’s first and most prestigious single malt whisky, established in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii who sought to create a whisky that would suit the delicate Japanese palate while honoring traditional Scottish methods.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Premium malted barley, water from the renowned Ōi River, known for its soft and pure quality that runs beneath Mount Tenno
• Distillation process: Pot still distillation in copper stills of various shapes to create complex flavor profiles unique to Yamazaki
• Maturation: 12 years in a combination of American oak, Spanish sherry, and rare Japanese mizunara oak casks
• Special techniques: Unique “nested” barrel aging system that exposes the whisky to different wood influences and the distinct four seasons of Japan

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fragrant peach, pineapple, grapefruit, candied orange, vanilla cream, and mizunara oak spice
• Palate: Rich with honey, coconut, and dried fruit complemented by subtle cinnamon spice and elegant Japanese oak
• Finish: Medium to long with lingering fruit, spice, and a distinctive subtle smokiness with hints of Japanese incense

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature or slightly chilled (15-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the delicate aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of pure water to open up the complex flavors
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate, dried fruits, sushi with fatty fish, light cheese, or traditional Japanese wagashi sweets

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 43% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml / 750ml (market dependent)
• Country/Region of origin: Japan, Yamazaki Distillery in Shimamoto, Osaka Prefecture
• Certifications/Awards: Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge, Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible – multiple 90+ ratings

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Yamazaki 12 Year Old represents the pinnacle of Japanese whisky craftsmanship with its exceptional balance of fruit, honey, and the distinctive character of mizunara oak found nowhere else in the world.

Production constraints and increasing global demand have made this 12-year expression increasingly difficult to obtain, with many retailers limiting purchases per customer.

As the flagship product from Suntory, Japan’s most respected whisky producer, Yamazaki 12 Year Old has set the standard for Japanese whisky and influenced master distillers globally.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts and critics alike consistently rate Yamazaki 12 Year Old among the finest single malts in the world, regardless of country of origin.

Those who add this expression to their collection often find themselves pursuing other Yamazaki releases, beginning a journey through Japanese whisky appreciation.

Its consistent recognition at prestigious competitions like the World Whiskies Awards demonstrates why this expression remains the benchmark against which other Japanese whiskies are measured.

From Yamazaki Distillery to You

Each bottle of Yamazaki 12 Year Old represents not just 12 years of patient maturation, but nearly a century of whisky-making tradition that the Suntory master blenders have generously shared with the world.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky creates an immediate connection with those who appreciate the subtle harmony that defines Japanese craftsmanship.

By experiencing Yamazaki 12 Year Old, you join a global community of whisky aficionados who recognize that true artistry in spirits transcends borders—discover what makes this legendary expression the cornerstone of any distinguished whisky collection.