Hakushu Distiller's Reserve

About the Hakushu Distiller's Reserve

Hakushu Distiller's Reserve is a lightly peated single malt Japanese whisky from the Hakushu distillery. It comes from the forested foothills of Mt. Kaikomagatake in Japan, high in the Southern Alps. Suntory opened Hakushu in 1973 as its mountain forest distillery. The site sits at around 700 metres, surrounded by woodland and a protected wild bird sanctuary. Soft mountain snowmelt feeds the stills after filtering down through the rock. That clean, cool source shapes the delicate, green character of the spirit. This is the gentle, herbal end of Japanese whisky. The nose is fresh and leafy, with mint and a hint of cut herbs. There is ripe pear and a green note that calls to mind pine needles. A soft, smoky thread runs underneath, a signature of the distillery's light peating. A whisper of cream soda sweetness lifts the middle. Light oak gives it just enough backbone. The House of Suntory calls Hakushu the revelation of Japanese single malts. The style is unlike the richer, sherried drams many people expect. It is crisp, aromatic and easy to return to. The finish stays clean, with that quiet smoke lingering on. Drink Hakushu Distiller's Reserve neat to taste it at its clearest. A small drop of water can lift the fresh, herbal aromas if you wish. Give it a moment and the cool forest character emerges. It suits anyone curious about lighter, lightly peated single malt whisky. This Hakushu bottling is a fine taste of Japan beyond the famous Yamazaki, green and refreshing in the glass.