Suntory Tsukuriwake Series Introduction
As far as Japanese whisky is concerned, the Suntory Tsukuriwake Series is the holy grail. The careful craftsmanship of Japanese whisky making is on full display in this assortment, which features rare expressions from the illustrious Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries. Each bottle in the collection represents Suntory’s illustrious history, cutting-edge innovations, and unmatched quality.
Suntory Whisky’s Enduring Importance
Since its founding in the early 1900s, Suntory has been a frontrunner in the Japanese whisky industry. Shinjiro Torii, the creator, had the aim of making a whisky that was distinctively Japanese and would satisfy the refined tastes of Japanese consumers. In 1923, the Yamazaki Distillery was founded, situated between the clean waters of the Katsura, Uji, and Kizu rivers, as a result of this goal.
The Yamazaki Distillery: Japan’s Whisky Epicenter
A Review of the Past
The earliest and oldest malt whisky distillery in Japan, Yamazaki Distillery, is located in an area famous for its perfect weather and water, two factors that are essential for making whisky. Yamazaki has earned a reputation for creativity and excellence over the decades by producing some of the most famous whiskies in the world.
The Yamazaki Tsukuriwake Art Form
One definition of “Tsukuriwake” is the variety of whisky-making processes used by Yamazaki Distillery. To achieve this multi-flavor profile, this technique employs a number of different fermentation, distillation, and aging procedures. Whiskies from the Tsukuriwake Series, which exhibits several facets of Yamazaki’s artistry, illustrate this idea.
Hakushu Distillery: A Harmony of Ecology and Technology
Exploring Haku Shu’s Distinct Environment
There is a special microclimate and very clean water at the Hakushu Distillery amid the unspoiled woods of the Southern Alps in Japan. Since its founding in 1973, Hakushu has grown to represent cutting-edge whisky-making practices and a harmonious relationship with nature.
The Approach of the Tsukuriwake at Hakushu
In keeping with the distillery’s natural setting in a forest, Hakushu’s Tsukuriwake Series contribution has a refreshingly herbaceous aroma and flavor. Hakushu produces a variety of sophisticated and invigorating whiskies by utilizing various fermentation and distillation procedures.
Analyzing the Whiskies in the Tsukuriwake Series in Depth
Choosing the Yamazaki Tsukuriwake
Whisky from Yamazaki Puncheon, which has been aged in massive puncheon casks, has a gentle sweetness, a creamy mouthfeel, and hints of fruit and flowers.
Peated malt gives this Yamazaki expression its smokey richness, which is complemented by the subtle notes of dark chocolate and dried fruit that are characteristic of the brand.
The Yamazaki Spanish Oak: This whisky has been aged in hand-picked Spanish oak barrels, so it has a deep, spicy flavor that tastes like sherry and dried fruits.
Aged in the rare Japanese Mizunara oak, Yamazaki Mizunara is a whiskey with a reputation for layers of coconut and spices reminiscent of incense.
Selection of Hakushu Tsukuriwake
With hints of smoke, green apple, and mint, Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve is a lively and refreshing whisky that embodies the forest.
Aged in sherry barrels, this Hakushu has a full-bodied flavor characterized by dried fruit, spice, and a subtle nuttiness.
The Hakushu Bourbon Barrel is a smooth and sweet whisky with notes of honey, lemon, and vanilla that has been aged in American white oak barrels.
Strong peat smoke characterizes Hakushu Heavily Peated, a powerful whisky that also has floral notes and a smoky aftertaste.
Notes on Flavor and Recommendations for Pairing
Whiskies from Yamazaki
Yamazaki Puncheon: To fully appreciate its subtle nuances, it is best served either neat or with a splash of water. Serve with raw seafood appetizers like sashimi or sushi.
One of the many ways to enjoy Yamazaki Peated Malt is neat or mixed with a highball. Risqué cheeses and smoked meats go well together.
The Yamazaki Spanish oak is the perfect wine to enjoy slowly; it goes well with rich treats like dark chocolate or dried fruits.
Complex and best served neat, Yamazaki Mizunara is a whiskey. For a perfect complement to spicy foods or decadent sweets, try this.
Kumamoto Whiskies
Light and refreshing, Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve goes well with seafood and highball cocktails.
Enjoyed neat, Hakushu Sherry Cask goes nicely with hearty meals like stewed beef or grilled lamb.
Smooth and multipurpose, Hakushu Bourbon Barrel goes well with grilled chicken, light salads, and drinks.
Whisky connoisseurs will savor Hakushu Heavily Peated, whether it’s served neat or with a little water. The flavor complements smoked salmon and blue cheese nicely.
In summary
Honoring the rich history and varied styles of Japanese whisky, Suntory has released the Tsukuriwake Series. The Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries each have their distinct histories that are filled with stories of creativity, tradition, and the never-ending quest for excellence. The Tsukuriwake Series provides a unique window into Japanese whisky for collectors and whisky lovers.