The Yamazaki
The Yamazaki Distillery is the birthplace of Japanese whisky. Found on the periphery of Kyoto, this region was formerly referred to as "Minaseno", where one of the purest waters of Japan originates. Yamazaki Distillery is where the Katsura, Uji and Kizu rivers converge, providing one of Japan’s softest waters. The diversity of this region’s temperature and humidity creates ideal conditions for cask aging, known as the signature "Suntory Maturation". Good whisky requires good water. Yamazaki Whisky is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery, multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas. Today, Yamazaki Whisky is not only the No.1 single malt whisky in Japan but is enjoyed in more than 35 countries.
The Yamazaki 12 is rich with soft ripening fruit. It is gold in color with aromas of peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange, vanilla, and Mizunara (Japanese oak). On the palate you pick up flavors of coconut, cranberry, and butter. The whisky has a lengthy finish with sweet ginger, and cinnamon.
The Yamazaki 18 is richer with already ripe fruit and has a deep amber color. On the nose, raisin, apricot, cafe au lait, and Mizunara (Japanese oak). Flavors of blackberry, strawberry jam, and dark chocolate on the palate with a long, spicy, smooth finish.
-- Kerry Ichimasa, Assistant Wine Director