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Learn MoreThe Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky Distiller's Reserve is an elegant Japanese whisky crafted at Suntory’s renowned Yamazaki distillery—Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery. Bottled at 43% ABV, this flagship single malt is expertly matured in a blend of American, Spanish (Sherry and Bordeaux wine), and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, resulting in a uniquely balanced and harmonious flavor profile. Expect enticing aromas of strawberry, cherry, and delicate Mizunara notes, followed by a smooth palate featuring raspberry, white peach, and a touch of coconut, with hints of vanilla and subtle cinnamon on the lingering finish. The Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve embodies both sophistication and complexity, making it a must-have for enthusiasts seeking the essence of Japanese whisky tradition in every sip.
Process & Profile
The Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky Distiller's Reserve is crafted at Japan’s oldest malt distillery, established in 1923 by Suntory. It is a No-Age-Statement (NAS) single malt, launched in 2014 and bottled at 43% ABV. This whisky’s unique character is the result of careful maturation in a selection of Bordeaux wine casks, Sherry casks, and Japanese Mizunara oak. These diverse cask types impart a combination of fruity, oaky, and spicy flavors, distinguishing it from other single malts.Tasting Notes
- Color: Gold
- Aroma (Nose): Inviting notes of strawberry and cherry enriched by fragrant Mizunara oak, along with gentle hints of apricot, peach, apple, vanilla, honey, caramel, and a trace of floral notes.
- Palate: Lively raspberry, white peach, and a touch of coconut, accompanied by soft spices, caramel, and a slight bitter oakiness from the Mizunara and Bordeaux casks; also featuring hints of grapefruit, mint, and mild pepper.
- Finish: Sweet vanilla lingers, complemented by a clear, clean finish with a delicate hint of cinnamon and subtle oak spice.
- Mouthfeel: Oily and slightly drying, balanced by persistent oak and spice.
What Makes It Special
- Flagship Expression: This whisky serves as the cornerstone of the Yamazaki range, embodying the craftsmanship and tradition of Suntory’s pioneering Japanese distilling.
- Complex Maturation: Its blend of American, Spanish, and Japanese Mizunara oak casks creates a layered profile with both international and distinctly Japanese elements.
- Red Berry Signature: The use of Bordeaux and Sherry casks imparts a characteristic and lively red berry flavor rarely found in other single malts, while the Mizunara cask adds a uniquely Japanese sandalwood and incense quality.
- Widely Recognized: Celebrated for its approachable complexity and elite quality at its price point, the Distiller’s Reserve appeals to both new whisky drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Appreciate the perfume of red berries and Mizunara oak with a gentle sip in a whisky tasting glass.
- With a Drop of Water: Adding a little water can amplify citrus and floral notes while softening oak bitterness for a more delicate profile.
- On the Rocks: Chilling opens up the fruity elements, making it refreshing yet complex for relaxed enjoyment.
- Highball: Mix with premium soda water and a twist of citrus to create an elegant Japanese highball, enhancing its subtle flavors and making for a perfect aperitif.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve is a Japanese single malt whisky
crafted by Suntory at Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery. It blends whiskies aged in American, Spanish, and Mizunara (Japanese oak) casks, emphasizing fruity, floral, and spicy notes with a refined balance and complexity. How does the Distiller's Reserve differ from other Yamazaki whiskies?
Distiller's Reserve is a no-age-statement (NAS) entry-level expression
that features younger whiskies matured in Bordeaux wine and sherry casks, combined with a small amount of Mizunara cask-aged whisky for added character. What are the tasting notes for the Distiller's Reserve? -
Aroma:
Fresh fruits such as strawberry, cherry, and a hint of Mizunara wood spice. -
Palate:
Raspberry, peach, vanilla, malt, delicate spice, touches of coconut and nuts, and subtle floral accents. -
Finish:
Sweet vanilla, citrus zest, gentle warmth, lingering with hints of cinnamon and oak. What casks are used to mature the Distiller's Reserve?
Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve is matured in a combination of Bordeaux wine, sherry, American oak, and Mizunara oak casks
, providing a unique blend of sweetness, fruit, spice, and subtle tannins. What is the best way to enjoy Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve?
This whisky can be savored neat, with a splash of water, or in a high-quality Japanese Highball.
Neat tasting allows appreciation of its complexity, while a splash of water can open up more citrus and oak notes. Its lively profile also performs well in cocktails. Is the Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve chill-filtered or colored? There is mixed information regarding chill-filtration and coloring: some sources indicate it may not be chill-filtered or colored; others suggest otherwise. Suntory has not made an official statement, so definitive confirmation is unavailable. What is the ABV and bottle size?
Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve is bottled at 43% ABV in 700ml bottles
. Who is the Distiller's Reserve suitable for?
This whisky is an ideal choice for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers
seeking to explore Japanese single malts, thanks to its balance of depth and approachability. What makes Yamazaki Distiller's Reserve unique in Japanese whisky? Its combination of youthful vibrancy, careful cask selection (including Bordeaux wine and Mizunara oak), and expert blending embodies both tradition and innovation found in modern Japanese whisky.
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