Suntory Whisky : Hakushu 18 Year Old

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for the Hakushu 18 Years Old Suntory Whisky

Tasting Color
A deep bronze hue illuminated with golden highlights, testifying to a long maturation. The spirit is bottled without cold filtration or artificial coloring, thus preserving its natural nuances derived from its interaction with the wood. Nose
The aromatic bouquet unfolds in layers, offering a minty freshness and delicately peated malt notes. Complex aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, almond, green apple, Bartlett pear and orange zest then intertwine, enhanced by touches of freshly cut grass, fresh flowers and black tea. Subtle herbaceous notes of sage, dried mint, pine needles and basil round out this nose, evoking the purity of a forest or a mountain stream. Palate
The attack is well structured, marked by spices such as white pepper and crushed black pepper. The texture proves oily and viscous, with a medium body. The palate reveals flavors of ripe apple, jasmine, mango and quince, balanced by the sweetness of caramel and toffee, as well as by nutty notes and a fine oxidative complexity. Black tea tannins, menthol and sage bring a crisp, mineral dimension. The finish is exceptionally long, unveiling a pleasant smokiness that builds gradually, a subtle bitterness of lime zest, honey, dark chocolate, almond paste and tobacco. Food Pairing and Tasting Moments This exceptional spirit is best enjoyed as a digestif to close a hearty meal. Its natural salinity and minerality make it a remarkable companion for seafood, particularly raw oysters, accompanied by a simple drop of water to release their aromas. It also elevates caramel, chocolate and vanilla desserts, such as crème brûlée or chocolate mousse, as well as aged cheeses with saline notes like sheep's milk blue cheese. Mixology As this is an exceptional, long-matured product, it is highly recommended to enjoy this whisky neat, either straight or with a light drop of water, in order to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and the finesse of its craftsmanship. Other Characteristics This single malt stands out for its delicately peated profile, offering a gentle smokiness that elegantly supports the fruity and floral notes without ever overpowering them. It is bottled at 43% alcohol by volume.

A Japanese Single Malt of Great Elegance, Minerally and Delicately Peated

The Heritage and Philosophy of Suntory Whisky Founded in 1899 by Shinjiro Torii in Osaka, the Suntory Whisky house is the undisputed pioneer of Japanese whisky. After establishing the Yamazaki distillery in 1923, the company continued its expansion under the leadership of Keizo Saji, who founded the Hakushu distillery in 1973 in the heart of the Japanese Southern Alps. Guided by the philosophy of Monozukuri — the art of masterful craftsmanship — and a commitment to creating harmony between man and nature, the company has become the third-largest spirits group in the world. Today, the founding Saji family remains the current owner, controlling approximately 90% of the capital through Kotobuki Realty. This family governance ensures the continuity of a century-old expertise that combines respect for tradition, technological innovation and environmental responsibility. The Meticulous Craftsmanship of the Hakushu 18 Years Old The Hakushu 18 Years Old is an exceptional single malt produced at the Hakushu distillery, nicknamed the forest distillery. Located at over 700 meters above sea level at the foot of Mount Kaikomagatake, it benefits from a unique microclimate and a spring water of exceptional purity. This water, filtered through ancient granite rock, gives the whisky its characteristic mineral and fresh signature. The crafting of this spirit relies on rigorous traditional methods. Fermentation takes place exclusively in wooden vats, allowing the crucial aromatic compounds to be preserved within the cool, humid environment of the forest. The first distillation is carried out over a direct flame, an essential technique for ensuring the artisanal quality of the distillate. The maturation of this single malt spans a minimum of eighteen years. The final blend is the result of a meticulous selection of different casks, including ex-bourbon casks that contribute soft, caramelized notes, as well as ex-sherry casks responsible for a superior oxidative complexity. The region's temperature variations accelerate the integration of the wood while preserving the freshness of the distillate, resulting in a masterful expression of the craftsmanship of Japan.