Japanese Whisky

The story of Japanese Whisky

Whisky is a spirit that’s enjoyed by many around the world. It’s an artisanal product, and its production is often associated with unique and exciting stories. For Japan, whisky was entirely foreign for hundreds of years until it was introduced to the nation by Commodore Matthew Perry at a banquet with a few local visitors in 1853. In this blog post, we will delve into the story of Japanese whisky. From its origins to its current popularity, read on to learn more about one of the most exciting spirits out there. Let’s begin the tale of Japanese whisky…

How much whisky is drunk in Japan?

Japanese people like drinking.In 2018, there was USD 600.2 million in sales of Japanese whisky worldwide. From 2019 to 2025, sales are expected to increase at a noteworthy CAGR of 9.4%. A survey revealed that 57.9% of the respondents drank whisky only once a month, while 42.1% of those surveyed had more than once. In 2002, 20 gallons of whisky were consumed 2020. However, this is 6 gallons less than what Japanese consumed in 1995. Government statistics show that these numbers are on the decline.

When most people think of whisky, they likely think of Scotch. But Japan also has a rich whisky history that dates back centuries. Today, Japanese whisky is gaining in popularity worldwide, thanks partly to its unique flavor profile. The Japanese use malted grain mash and distilled water to create their whisky. They also add yeast, which gives the whisky a cloudy appearance and fruity taste. Japanese are dedicated to creating and perfecting exceptional whiskies. They’re not afraid to create a more delicate whiskey, which makes their drink stand out. With such a system of standards, the Japanese can ensure that their whiskies are always top quality and reflect the uniqueness of their culture and their people.

When was it produced in Japan?

The first record of whisky being imported into Japan was in 1870. However, it was in 1923 that the first distillery opened and commercial operations started. Shinjiro Torii founded the distillery ‘Yamazaki’. Today, it is one of Japan’s most renowned producers. The first genuine malt whisky from The Yamazaki Distillery, Shirofuda “White Label,” was released five years later, in 1929. It didn’t do too well but created history in being the first indigenously manufactured whiskey on the island country. Many more distilleries followed suit after Yamakazi.

What is special about it ?

Thanks to their distilling process, Japanese whisky flavor differentiates it from other types manufactured in the US and Europe. It follows a meticulous and complex maturation process. Water plays a central role in their process, and impacts the flavor and texture of Japanese whisky tremendously. The climate also plays a significant factor—Japan’s winters are brutal. At specific points in the maturation process, some whisky is stored at what can reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit. As winter approaches, the temperature changes dramatically, impacting wine and craft whiskey production.

What is the taste of Japanese whisky like?

Japanese whisky, modeled on the Scttish whisky tastes almost similar. Like the latter, Japanese whisky is crafted by double distilling malted and peated barley before being aged in wood barrels. Like Scotch, Japanese whiskies generally have a lighter body and are smokier and heavier on the peat flavors. However, it does not include a single flavor. Like Scotch, some have peaty while others have earthy tones. Japanese whisky manufacturers try to experiment and improve their mixology as part of their perfectionist approach. They strive for balance in the complexity of flavors, striving for restraint until a mastered blend.

What other producers thinks about it?

Japanese whisky is one of the market’s most unique and distinct spirits. It has a rich history and is often associated with culture and tradition. However, what other producers think about it isn’t out there.

What brands are the most famous?

In the world of whisky, Japan is a powerhouse. Not just because of the large number of distilleries located there, but also because of the quality and popularity of Japanese whiskies. When it comes to brands, some are more well-known than others. Here are five of the most famous Japanese whiskies:

  1. Yamazaki The brand has been developing new tastes and styles to bring out its whiskies’ most vibrant and well-rounded flavors. Every sip is rich in texture, character, and complexity, leaving nothing but unmistakable taste. The most popular is 25-Year-Old Yamazaki Single Malt stock, aged exclusively in sherry casks releasing only 12,000 each year.
  2. Suntory Hibiki Another most iconic Japanese brands is Suntory’s Hibiki whisky. One of the top-rated whiskies from this brand, the Hibiki 21-Year and 30-Year, are considered some of the tastiest bottles of any style on planet earth.
  3. The Hakushu If you’re looking for a smoky blend from Japan, Hakushu is your brand of choice. They come in the form of single malt scotches that are distilled from 100 percent malted barley, which is dried over a peat fire. What is the best Japanese whisky? Yamazaki 12-Year-Old at Drizly is the best Japanese whisky. This golden whisky exudes diverse scents and is exceptionally palatable. Fruit aromas like peach, grapefruit, pineapple, and candied orange are present, along with spices like clove and orange. You may also feel rich coconut and sour cranberry flavors in this whisky, and spicy ginger and cinnamon can be found in the lengthy finish.

How to enjoy Japanese whisky?

So, if you liked what you read, you may like to sip a glass of Japanese whisky. Here are a few interesting ways to enjoy the drink: ● Neat ● highball ● half rock ● on the rocks. ● whisky & Water ● hot whisky

Summing up

Japanese whisky has a long and fascinating history that is often undervalued. In this article, we looked at its story and explored some of its unique features. We hope you enjoyed learning about this delicious spirit and be sure to let us know your feelings in the comments section below.