Japanese Whisky

When it comes to whisky, or whiskey if you prefer Irish spelling(inclusion of "e"), Scotland dominates its reputation. But recently, I have been hearing that Japanese whisky, especially Suntory's whisky, is getting recognition and even globally prestigious awards.

Suntory has two main distilleries, one in Yamazaki(Kyoto prefecture) and one in Hakushu(Yamashina prefecture). On Sunday, I visited Suntory's Yamazaki distillery, the border town of Kyoto prefecture and Osaka prefecture.

It is said that quality water and humid climate in Yamazaki contribute to the quality whisky of Suntory. The most distinguished tea master Sen-no-Rikyu had tea house in Yamazaki in 15th century, because water in Yamazaki was perfectly suited to make sublime tea.

There is a free distillery tour in Yamazaki with advance booking, it is fun and better yet as the tour ends with whisky tasting session. On Sunday, free tasting includes whisky(Yamazaki) with soda, whisky(Yamazaki) with ice, and whisky(Hakushu) with soda. I have not often tried whisky with soda, but it was really refreshing when taken in Yamazaki. I found new way to enjoy whisky. Thank you, Suntory Yamazaki.

Aside from water, this area has been an important traffic route between Osaka(biggest merchant city) and Kyoto(the imperial capital), so there were historical battle taking place around this area and nearby mountains. Rich in history and rich in quality water with hiking course, you can make a good excursion from Kyoto or Osaka.

Rows of whisky casks in Suntory Yamazaki distillery