Celebrate a century of craftsmanship with the Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt Whisky 100th Anniversary Edition, a masterpiece from Japan's legendary Suntory distillery. This limited-edition bottling showcases the distillation artistry behind Yamazaki, Japan's first and oldest malt whisky distillery, founded in 1923. Aged in a harmonious blend of American, Spanish, and rare Japanese Mizunara oak casks, this whisky delivers a delicate yet complex experience. Its bouquet reveals notes of persimmon, honey, clove, and candied orange, transitioning to a palate enriched with coconut, cranberry, and subtle spices, before a long, woody, and sweet finish. Encased in a striking copper-toned design that pays homage to Yamazaki's heritage, this pure gold-hued whisky offers a luxurious balance of tradition and innovation, perfect for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the foothills of Mount Tenno, the Yamazaki 12 Year whisky exemplifies precision and innovation in whisky-making. Made from 100% malted barley and matured in a combination of American oak, Spanish oak, and Japan's iconic Mizunara oak barrels, this whisky captures unique flavors inspired by its local environment. The Mizunara oak, native to Japan, adds a distinctive touch of sandalwood, spice, and incense. The distillery employs a flexible production process, including the use of 16 pot stills and an array of cask types, ensuring a whisky of unparalleled complexity and depth. The unique climate of Japan—marked by high humidity and seasonal temperature changes—enhances its maturation process, delivering a spirit with remarkable harmony and elegance.
Tasting Notes
Yamazaki 12 Year offers a sensory journey that delights whisky enthusiasts:
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Color: A pure golden hue, reflecting its meticulous aging process.
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Nose: A complex bouquet of tropical fruits, including pineapple, peach, and grapefruit, blended with floral accents of jasmine and hints of Mizunara oak's signature sandalwood and vanilla.
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Palate: Smooth and rich with flavors of honey, candied orange, coconut, and spiced wood. Subtle notes of cranberry and butter bring balance and complexity.
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Finish: A long, elegant conclusion with sweet spice, dried fruits, and a touch of ginger, leaving a lingering warmth and satisfaction.
What Makes It Special
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Yamazaki 100th Anniversary 12 Year is a rare and exclusive bottling that combines heritage with innovation. As the flagship expression of Suntory's historic distillery, this whisky is renowned for its use of Mizunara oak casks, which require immense skill and patience due to their rarity and challenging nature. This edition showcases the pioneering spirit of Yamazaki, honoring a century of dedication to creating some of the world's finest single malts. Its complexity and balance make it a standout among global whiskies, being celebrated for both its craftsmanship and its role in elevating Japanese whisky to international acclaim.
How to Enjoy
Savor this iconic whisky in the way that best suits your palate:
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Neat: Experience its purest form, appreciating its rich flavors and complex finish.
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On the Rocks: Enhance its refreshing tropical and floral notes while mellowing its spice.
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With Food: Pair with sushi or Japanese cuisine, as its gentle sweetness complements flavors like soy, ginger, and fish beautifully.
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Cocktails: While it's ideal as a standalone pour, its depth can add sophistication to classic whisky cocktails.
Conclusion
The
Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt Whisky 100th Anniversary is more than a drink—it's a celebration of tradition, innovation, and masterful artistry. Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or new to the world of Japanese spirits, this exceptional expression offers a remarkable tasting experience that honors the legacy of Yamazaki. Indulge in its layered complexity and raise a glass to 100 years of whisky excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Yamazaki 12 Year 100th Anniversary Edition special?
This edition was created to celebrate the 100-year milestone of Suntory Whisky. It features meticulously selected malt whiskies aged for at least 12 years, showcasing Yamazaki's rich heritage as Japan's first and oldest malt distillery. The bottle design pays homage to its historic location and the legacy of Japanese whisky-making.
What is the flavor profile of this whisky?
Yamazaki 12 Year 100th Anniversary Edition offers a complex flavor profile. Expect notes of peach, pineapple, grapefruit, candied orange, and vanilla on the nose. The palate delivers coconut, cranberry, and butter, with a long finish featuring sweet ginger and cinnamon.
What type of casks are used for aging?
This whisky is aged in a combination of American oak, Spanish oak (sherry casks), and Japanese Mizunara oak. Each cask type contributes unique characteristics, from sweet vanilla and caramel to fruity richness and rare, spicy notes from Mizunara oak.
How should I enjoy Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt Whisky?
This whisky is best enjoyed neat to experience its full complexity. Alternatively, adding a splash of water can open up its flavors. It also pairs well with rich desserts or can be used in premium whisky cocktails.
What is the alcohol content of Yamazaki 12 Year 100th Anniversary Edition?
The whisky has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 43%, offering a balance between strength and smoothness.
Is this a limited-edition release?
Yes, this is a special limited-edition release created for Suntory Whisky's 100th anniversary. It is designed to honor a century of excellence and craftsmanship in Japanese whisky-making.
What does “Yamazaki” mean, and where is the distillery located?
Yamazaki means "mountain cape," referencing the distillery's picturesque location amidst forest-covered mountains in Japan. This setting provides the ideal natural conditions for whisky production, including pure water and a humid climate.
What are the key aromas and tasting notes?
The aromas include fragrant lychee, spring blossoms, and subtle spices. Tasting notes highlight silky honey, soft spices, crystallized pineapple, barley sugar, lemon, and orange, accompanied by lingering sweet and spicy flavors.
What is Mizunara oak, and why is it significant?
Mizunara oak is a rare and prized Japanese oak used for some of Yamazaki's casks. It imparts a distinct spicy, woody aroma and deep complexity, making Mizunara-aged whiskies highly sought after by connoisseurs.
Can this whisky be gifted for special occasions?
Absolutely. The Yamazaki 12 Year 100th Anniversary Edition, with its elegant flavor, rich history, and commemorative packaging, makes a thoughtful and prestigious gift for whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike.
