When one thinks about whiskey, they typically think of Ireland or Scotland – or maybe, if they read Made Man enough, speakers. However, in the last decade or two, Japan has become an emerging market for a new, different style of whiskey. And Hibiki 12-year old is a recent, affordable, excellent example of this trend from Suntory.
Rather than American whiskeys or bourbons which are aged in (among some other things) oak, Suntori’s Hibiki is a mix of about 30 different single malts and is aged in re-used casks which originally held plum liquor. The resultant whiskey is has a honey spiced note absent many western whiskeys, and a bottle of it can be yours for just $65. This is especially notable because, until recently, this whiskey was not available commercially in the United States. Check it out here.
COMMENTS
August 1, 2010 10:36 pm
Viguy
The Japanese have been doing great whisky’s for a long time. Suntory being one of the largest and most recognized there, first started up in 1923. Nikka (Whisky Distillery established 1934) being the northern most one with a reputation for quality production, they have been producing Sake since the 1700′s.
When speaking of World Whiskies, you have to remember the variants and the fact of how many countries produce them.
A country many people overlook is India, which has the largest whisky drinking population in the world. Want to see how far they have come in Whisky Production? Check out Armut (in particular Armut Fusion). For anyone looking to expand their knowledge/interest in whiskies of the world, (no matter your location) I would recommend picking up a current copy of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, its a great way to understand the differences and to make choices on your purchases while you explore the worlds Whisky’s.
Slainte Mhath
Trackbacks