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Learn MoreThe Yamazaki Single Malt 12 Year is a renowned Japanese whisky crafted at Japan’s oldest malt distillery, established in 1923 by Suntory, and is celebrated for its multi-layered complexity and exceptional balance. This flagship expression showcases a radiant pure gold color, opening with an inviting nose of peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange, vanilla, and distinctive Mizunara oak. The palate is rich and smooth, featuring harmonious notes of coconut, cranberry, and butter, complemented by a long, sweet finish with hints of ginger and cinnamon that lingers elegantly. Matured in a unique blend of American, Spanish sherry, and rare Japanese Mizunara oak casks, Yamazaki 12 delivers a delicate yet pronounced profile that’s both fruity and spicy, making it a benchmark for Japanese single malts and a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
The Yamazaki Whisky Single Malt 12 Year: SEO-Optimized Product Description
Overview
Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt is Japan’s pioneering whisky, renowned globally for its harmonious complexity, layered character, and smooth elegance. Crafted at Suntory’s Yamazaki Distillery—the country’s first and oldest malt distillery—this award-winning spirit stands as the flagship Japanese single malt, beloved by connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Process & Profile
Produced entirely in Japan, Yamazaki 12 Year is distilled using traditional Scottish-inspired techniques with local adaptations. Carefully selected barley is malted, fermented with both distiller’s and ale yeast for a nuanced estery and fruity wash, and double-distilled in a unique variety of pot stills.
Maturation occurs in a blend of American white oak, Spanish sherry, and Japanese Mizunara oak casks over *at least twelve years*, resulting in a whisky with remarkable depth and refinement. The distinctive Japanese climate and meticulous aging produce golden amber hues and a multi-layered flavor profile reminiscent of sandalwood and subtle coconut notes from the Mizunara oak.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Aromatic hints of sandalwood, coconut, ripe grapefruit, pineapple, orange, vanilla, and light floral undertones.
Palate: Silky and sweet, with honeyed malt, winter spice, bright citrus, tropical fruit, and a gentle touch of rum-like richness.
Finish: Medium length, gracefully dry with lingering fruit, zest, and a balanced, refreshing clarity.
Yamazaki 12 exhibits exceptional balance, with every sip revealing elegant layers and an unmistakable smoothness that sets it apart from other single malts.
What Makes It Special
Heritage: Crafted at Japan’s trailblazing Yamazaki Distillery, established in 1923, and the first Japanese single malt ever to achieve international acclaim.
Innovation: Utilizes a mix of cask types—Mizunara, sherry, and American oak—creating a whisky with unrivaled aromatic and flavor depth.
Recognition: Awarded gold at the International Spirits Challenge, Yamazaki 12 is a symbol of Japanese whisky mastery.
Uniqueness: The use of imported and native materials, specialized yeast strains, and microclimate maturation impart personality found only in Japanese whisky.
How to Enjoy
Neat: Savor Yamazaki 12 in a whisky glass, allowing its delicate aromas and flavors to flourish.
With Water: Adding a splash of water can open up subtle fruit and floral notes, revealing more of its layered complexity.
On the Rocks: Chilling with a large ice cube emphasizes the honeyed malt softness and draws out tropical undertones.
Pairings: Complements sushi, seafood, or dishes featuring nuanced umami and aromatic herbs.
Whether you’re building a premium whisky collection or seeking the perfect accompaniment to refined moments, Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt delivers an unforgettable experience marked by Japanese craftsmanship and international prestige.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Yamazaki Whisky Single Malt 12 Year?
Yamazaki 12 Year is produced at the Yamazaki Distillery in Shimamoto, Osaka Prefecture, Japan, and is considered Suntory’s flagship single malt whisky.
What makes Yamazaki 12 Year unique among single malts?
This whisky is aged in a combination of American oak, Spanish sherry (oloroso), and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, imparting layers of fruit, spice, and sandalwood/incense aromas, which sets it apart from most Scottish single malts.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Yamazaki 12 Year?
The Yamazaki 12 Year features notes of ripe fruit such as peach, pineapple, and grapefruit, complemented by honeyed sweetness, hints of coconut, vanilla, cranberry, and gentle spice from Mizunara oak. The palate is smooth, rich, and complex with a multi layered character.
What is the recommended way to enjoy Yamazaki 12 Year?
Yamazaki 12 Year is best enjoyed neat to appreciate its delicate and nuanced flavors, though it can also be served with a splash of water or on the rocks to slightly open up the aromatics and palate.
What is the ABV (alcohol by volume) and bottle size of Yamazaki 12 Year?
The whisky is bottled at 43% ABV and typically comes in a standard 750 ml size.
Is Yamazaki 12 Year made from malted barley?
Yes, it is a true single malt whisky made exclusively from 100% malted barley, which is milled and mashed at the distillery.
How long is Yamazaki 12 Year aged?
It is aged for a minimum of 12 years in carefully selected oak casks before bottling.
What does the finish taste like?
The finish is long, smooth, and slightly dry, with lingering notes of fruit, spice, oak, and a subtle touch of smokiness and sandalwood. Why is Mizunara oak important in Yamazaki 12 Year? Japanese Mizunara oak imparts unique aromas of sandalwood and incense, contributing to the whisky’s delicate floral and spicy notes that are highly prized among whisky aficionados.
Is Yamazaki 12 Year considered a collectible or investment whisky?
Due to its legacy, international recognition, and limited availability, Yamazaki 12 Year is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and has seen significant increases in demand and collectibility over recent years. When was Yamazaki 12 Year first released? Yamazaki 12 Year entered the market in 1984, marking a pivotal moment for Japanese whisky and helping establish Yamazaki as a world class distillery.
What does the color of Yamazaki 12 Year indicate?
The whisky is described as having a bright golden amber or pure gold color, reflecting its careful aging in various types of oak casks.
Can I purchase Yamazaki 12 Year directly from the distillery?
Yamazaki single malts are available worldwide through authorized retailers. The distillery itself may offer products for sale to visitors, but availability can vary and may be limited.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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