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Although the general public may still be unfamiliar with Japanese whiskies, most whisky enthusiasts recognize its speciality and excellence. The Japanese started making their own whisky in the late 1800s. However, the first commercial distillery was set-up in 1924 and was named Yamazaki. The distillery continues to produce some of the world's finest whiskeys even today. The multi-award winning Yamazaki 18 Year Old Whisky from Suntory is one of the most popular Japanese whiskies in the world. It is a favourite among the Japanese locals as well. With its rich and complex taste, it has gained the approval of many single malt whisky fans.
The other popular whiskey is the Yamazaki 12-year old Single Malt whiskey. It is mellower than the 18-year whiskey and is a medium-bodied whiskey with honey and dry-fruit aromas. The delicate flavour of the 12-year old whiskey offers a dry, long and pleasant finish.
The process of making whisky in Japan is inspired by the Scottish whisky-making process, resulting in a significant similarity in taste. However, there have been several occasions where Japanese single malts have scored higher than their Scotch whisky counterparts during blind-tastings. The Yamazaki 18 Year Old has a unique taste that is almost similar to sherry whisky. For five consecutive years, it has been the highest-award-winning whisky blend at the San Francisco Wine and Spirits Competition. It rarely scores lower than 80 out of 100 in any tasting and it frequently scores as high as 90.Nose
The makers of Yamazaki 18 year old have skilfully designed this whisky in contrast to the 12 year old version. While both of them offer tempting aromas, the Yamazaki 18's is deeper and more matured compared to the Yamazaki 12's, which is young and vibrant. You can expect a powerful first impression that blends rich spices with autumn fruits.
Apple, pear, raisin, cinnamon, apricot, and chocolate are readily apparent. This luxurious first impression is followed by polished leather, wood smoke, and saddle soap, which reminds you of sun-warmed forest floor and log cabins. While it may come off as a masculine whisky, you still get a slight hint of cedar and jasmine that gives it a perfect balance.Body and palate
From the first time it dampens your lips, you can tell that the Yamazaki 18 is a classy and high-quality whisky. Though the palate may be slightly lighter than the nose suggests, it offers a rich sherry flavour followed by leafy and woody notes. More autumn fruits like dried plum, walnuts, and sultanas can be tasted, adding more sweetness to the complex dusty taste.Finish
The smooth, lingering finish of the Yamazaki 18 is, perhaps, one of its best qualities. It features rich and dry earthy notes with a blend of chocolate, light smoke, and stewed prunes. Light notes of pomegranate can also be tasted with a little bit of zest. With the sense of luxury and class it evokes, this is definitely the kind of fine whisky you would reward yourself with for accomplishing your goals.
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